Tirumala is set for a major ecological and infrastructure transformation, with the Andhra Pradesh government preparing a roadmap to develop the hill shrine as a 100% net-zero and zero-waste spiritual destination while protecting the Seshachalam Hills.

The proposed transformation brings together renewable energy, electric mobility, scientific waste management, water security and technology-enabled pilgrim services.

Clean Energy and Green Mobility

Tirumala’s power requirements are proposed to gradually shift towards solar and wind energy, supported by Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to reduce carbon emissions.

Electric mobility will also play a major role. With 32 electric buses recently added, the number of e-buses operating in the Tirumala hills has increased to 44. The long-term goal is to make the ghat roads a zero-emission zone.

Zero-Waste Tirumala

The waste-management plan includes segregation of wet and dry waste, bio-resource conversion facilities and sewage treatment plants. Organic waste is proposed to be converted into compost and biogas, while treated wastewater will be reused for landscaping and other non-drinking purposes.

A long-term water-security programme is also being implemented, including pipeline infrastructure to strengthen Tirumala’s water supply.

Technology to Improve Pilgrim Experience

Technology is also becoming an important part of the transformation. The ₹104-crore modernised Sri Venkateswara Museum features 14 galleries and more than 8,000 rare artefacts.

Virtual-reality facilities and meditation zones have also been introduced, while pilgrims are being provided Aadhaar-linked paperless insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh.

The broader vision is to develop Tirumala as an international spiritual destination combining sustainability, modern infrastructure and improved pilgrim services while preserving its ecological character.

Category: Tourism / Environment / Development