Tirupati wants no-fly zone over Sri Venkateswara Temple, writes to Civil Aviation citing ‘principles of Agama Shastra’

“With the growing air traffic in the region, there is a concern that low-flying aircraft, especially helicopters, could disrupt the tranquil atmosphere surrounding the temple and its sacred rituals. In this regard, the airspace over the Tirumala Temple be designated as a no-fly zone, both to preserve the religious sanctity and to ensure the safety of the devotees and temple structures. This measure would prevent any unauthorised aerial activities near the temple, which could disturb the peace and devotion of the pilgrims,” the letter said. The letter came to light on Saturday when the TTD issued a press release stating its demand all over again.

Back in 2016, the government of Andhra Pradesh had made a similar request to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry. This request was, however, turned down because a no-fly zone over Tirumala hills would restrict accessibility to Tirupati airport.

Responding to the request, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha had then said, “Due to terrain constraints around the Tirupati airport, the airport is already restricted to single runway operations and any additional restrictions in the form of no-fly zone over Tirumala hills will further reduce the accessibility to the such an important airport”.

The new request comes when the Civil Aviation Minister is K Ramamohan Naidu, a TDP leader from Andhra Pradesh. A  NDA government led by the TDP is in power in the state. Moreover, the TDP is an integral ally of the BJP in the Centre.