The first phase of the redevelopment project includes construction of improved entrance areas, installation of new stonework on the inner and outer temple walls, development of a two-storey parking facility with capacity for 124 vehicles and better crowd management and visitor facilities

Officials said the project has been designed under expert guidance to preserve the temple’s heritage while improving infrastructure

The Siddhivinayak Temple, established in 1801 by Laxman Patil and Dehubai Patil, is considered one of India’s most important Hindu temples

Millions of devotees from across India and abroad visit the temple every year

The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the Mahayuti government is giving priority to the development of religious and spiritual centres across Maharashtra