Despite Rs.52 Crore Facelift, Tripura Sundari Temple Lacks Basic Facilities for Elderly and Divyangjans

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, February 7, 2026

Despite a massive renovation and beautification project worth over Rs. 52 crore, basic facilities for senior citizens and divyangjan devotees are still missing at the historic Tripura Sundari Devi Temple in Udaipur.

It has been alleged that even after the grand upgradation of the temple complex under the Union Government’s PRASHAD scheme, there is not a single free wheelchair available for elderly and physically challenged pilgrims who require assistance to move around the temple premises. Devotees claim this has caused serious inconvenience, especially for those unable to climb the temple stairs.

More importantly, after an expenditure exceeding Rs. 50 crore, lift facilities, which were expected to be part of the modernization plan, have still not been installed at the temple complex. Many pilgrims question how such essential accessibility measures were overlooked in a project aimed at improving pilgrim convenience.

The 524-year-old Tripura Sundari Temple underwent a major facelift with a total project cost estimated between Rs. 52 crore and Rs. 54.04 crore. The renovated complex was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 22, 2025. The project was funded mainly by the Union Tourism Ministry under the PRASHAD scheme.

According to official details, the Central Government contributed Rs. 34.43 crore, while the Tripura State Government provided additional funds ranging from Rs. 7 crore to Rs. 17.61 crore.

The redevelopment project included landscaping, a new entrance plaza, visitor centre, food court, Bhog/Prasad Ghar, toilet blocks, VIP lounge, meditation hall and improved lighting facilities. These upgrades were designed to transform the temple into a major spiritual tourism destination.

Following the renovation, daily visitor footfall has reportedly increased from around 3,000–3,500 earlier to an expected 5,000–7,000 pilgrims. Annual visitors have crossed 12 lakh, and further increases are expected, especially during the Diwali Mela.

The local economy has also benefited, particularly after the famous Matabari Peda received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, boosting its commercial importance. Further plans are underway for a Rs. 97.7 crore '51 Shakti Peethas Park' near the temple to attract more tourists.

Meanwhile, the Gomati District Administration has recently imposed strict rules inside the temple premises. Sale and consumption of tobacco, cigarettes and other intoxicants have been completely banned, except tea. Use of single-use plastic carry bags has also been prohibited to maintain an eco-friendly and pollution-free environment. Violators will face legal action.

While devotees have welcomed these cleanliness and environmental initiatives, many feel that priority should also be given to basic accessibility needs.

Local pilgrims and senior citizens are now demanding immediate installation of lifts and provision of free wheelchairs so that the renovated temple truly becomes inclusive and convenient for all.

The question being raised is clear, after spending more than Rs. 50 crore on modernization, why are fundamental facilities for the elderly and divyangjans still absent at one of Tripura’s most important religious shrines?

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