In a significant move to enhance the spiritual and infrastructural aspects of the iconic Sammakka temple in Medaram, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has mandated the formation of a specialized team of officials. This dedicated group is tasked with accelerating all development projects, ensuring their swift and efficient completion.
The Chief Minister unequivocally stated that funding would not pose any obstacle, emphasizing the government’s commitment to releasing ample resources. He set an ambitious target: all planned works must be finalized within an impressive 100-day timeframe. During his recent visit to Medaram on Tuesday, Mr. Reddy meticulously reviewed the ongoing development alongside senior officials, respected priests, and local community leaders. A crucial directive from the Chief Minister was to seamlessly integrate tribal culture, traditions, and local beliefs into every facet of the developmental blueprint, respecting the sacred essence of the shrine.
Highlighting Medaram’s breathtaking natural surroundings, Mr. Reddy underscored the importance of designing and constructing new structures with exceptional resilience against potential natural disasters. A key component of these transformative works will be the construction of a robust check dam along the Jampanna Vagu rivulet, crucial for water conservation and sustainability.
Officials presented comprehensive plans, including detailed designs and proposed works within the temple premises, to the priests and tribal communities. The government’s proactive initiative for the temple’s expansion was met with enthusiastic approval from the local community, whose input was actively sought by the Chief Minister.
During these consultations, various concerns pertaining to tribal culture and traditions were brought to Mr. Revanth Reddy’s attention. He provided a firm assurance that these deeply held beliefs and practices would be given paramount importance throughout the development process. Reflecting on his personal connection, he shared, “Deities Sammakka and Saralammas embody the spirit of struggle. I have revered this temple since my election as an MLA,” also reminiscing about commencing his significant ‘padayatra’ from this holy site on February 6, 2023.
The Chief Minister expressed his resolute preference for constructing durable stone structures within the temple area. Furthermore, State Irrigation officials received explicit instructions to develop and maintain check dams, safeguarding Jampanna Vagu as a vital water source for the temple. Mr. Reddy stressed that it is the collective responsibility of the government and all stakeholders to preserve the rich history and inspiring tribal struggle of Medaram for generations to come.