Poor roads challenge devotees en route to Kasipatnam temple

The access route, an 18-kilometre stretch from Kasipatnam to Upper Kondaparthi village in Vizianagaram district, is marked by 36 sharp turns. The narrow, single-lane road accommodates both ascending and descending traffic, making navigation difficult. The absence of sufficient signboards, basic amenities, and traffic management exacerbates the situation. Many visitors ride motorcycles without helmets, often carrying triple riders, while overcrowded auto-rickshaws ferry up to 10 passengers, adding to congestion.

Ananthagiri sub-inspector Srinivas Rao Dumpala reported that two fatalities and eight to ten serious injuries have occurred this year, primarily on the NR Puram stretch, known for its sharp curves. He noted that efforts are underway to raise awareness among motorists about safe practices.

Temple owner and manager Sagar Reddy, who oversees operations outside government endowment, acknowledged the need for improved facilities. “We underestimated the surge in visitors. Eight volunteers have been recruited to assist tourists, and plans are in place to install danger and directional signboards,” he said. The temple cost approximately Rs 10 crore to construct and Reddy now intends to add public restroom facilities.

Priest Srinivas, alongside two priests from Madhya Pradesh, manages daily temple operations from 7 am to 7 pm. Despite the current challenges, efforts are being made to enhance the return journey. A contractor previously assigned to improve the road failed to complete the project, but Reddy assured that plans are being revisited to address the issue.

The temple continues to attract devotees, with ongoing efforts to improve safety and accessibility ensuring a more comfortable experience for visitors.