NALGONDA: Tourism minister Jupally Krishna Rao has directed officials to complete ongoing tourism development works at Bhongir Fort by October 2, expressing dissatisfaction over delays in execution.
During a review tour of Yadadri-Bhongir and Suryapet districts on Sunday, he inspected works at Bhongir Fort and laid foundation stones for conservation projects at the Phanigiri and Gajulabanda Buddhist heritage sites.
Reviewing the ropeway project and related infrastructure at Bhongir Fort, he said the site was being developed into a world-class tourism destination with an outlay of ₹56.81 crore under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0.
Pulling up officials over delays, he instructed them to closely monitor progress and expedite works to meet timelines. The project aims to integrate heritage conservation with modern tourism infrastructure to improve visitor experience.
He said the state government was giving priority to tourism development and heritage conservation, adding that the new tourism policy aimed to position Telangana as a preferred destination by promoting investment, employment and sustainable economic opportunities.
Referring to Buddhist heritage sites, he said conservation works were being taken up with support from Telangana GENCO (YTPS) CSR funds, with ₹1.60 crore allocated for Phanigiri and ₹23 lakh for Gajulabanda.
Describing Phanigiri as a significant Buddhist centre in South India, he said findings from excavations reflected the region’s historical and cultural legacy and could attract domestic and international tourists.
He announced an additional ₹5 crore for development works at Phanigiri, including approach roads, steps to the hilltop complex and visitor amenities.
The minister said development of Phanigiri and Gajulabanda would strengthen Telangana’s presence on the Buddhist tourism map while generating local employment.
During his visit to the Sri Someswara Swamy Temple at Kolanupaka, he said it would be developed as a Smart Temple with modern facilities while preserving its heritage character, and announced ₹5 crore for the project.
He said the government was adopting a destination-based tourism strategy by integrating heritage monuments, spiritual centres and Buddhist sites into thematic circuits.
Bhongir MLA Kumbham Anil Kumar Reddy, MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy, Government Whip Beerla Ilaiah and Tourism Development Corporation managing director Gauthami were present.
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