The TTD management is planning to introduce ‘time slots’ for pilgrims reaching the sacred abode of Lord Venkateswara on foot.
Buoyed with the successful implementation of the Rs. 300 online darshan tickets, it is now focussing on the ‘time slot’ facility to the pilgrims availing themselves of Divya Darshan tokens issued halfway on both the footpaths. Devotees reaching the town on foot are already allowed special entry and an additional free ‘laddu.’
Introduction of ‘time slots’ will be an extended advantage to the devotees as the approximate time for their darshan will be specified on the computerised tokens issued to them. It is believed it would reduce crowds at the entry point.
Official figures indicate that about 20,000 devotees trek to Tirumala on an average every day and take either the Alipiri or Srivari mettu footpath to reach the town. An analysis revealed around 50 per cent of the devotees reaching the town along the Alipiri footpath prefer to have darshan on the same day given the gruelling physical strain involved in scaling the steep rocky terrains.
It is about 60 per cent in regard to those taking the Srivari mettu route which is shorter and comparatively less arduous. The remaining percentage prefer queuing up for darshan the following day. While the number of devotees trekking is generally very high on weekends and festive occasions, it is low at the start of the week and moderate during mid week.
The time taken for darshan also varies each day, being comparatively less during the middle of the week.
Study of crowd pattern
A study of the crowd pattern is nearing completion. If everything goes on expected lines, the ‘time slot’ facility to the devotees will be a reality in a couple of months.
