GAYAJI, May 12 -- Gayapals (pilgrimage priests), saints associated with maths and temples, businessmen and locals have launched a protest against the proposed Vishnupad Temple Corridor Project in Gaya, alleging that the ambitious project will not only harm ancient cultural heritage but might also lead to demolition of a number of residential and commercial structures.

The Vishnupad Temple Corridor Project received approval in the Union Budget 2024 and is envisioned to be modelled on the successful Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor at an estimated cost of Rs.2,390 crore. It is a site which attracts millions of Hindus who descend to perform pind daan (a ritual for the salvation of departed loved ones). The new plan aims to develop it into a...