Mariamman temple fetches Rs 44.89 crore revenue

Tiruchirapalli, Aug 21 (UNI) The Sri Mariamman temple at Samayapuram, near here, has fetched an all-time high revenue of Rs 44.89 crore in 2006-07 as against Rs 17.20 crore in 2002-03.

Addressing a press conference here today, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Deputy Commissioner and Temple Executive Officer P R Ashok said the expenditure was Rs 4.18 crore in 2006-07, as against Rs 3.45 crore in 2002-03.

While the collection from the 'hundies' was Rs 5.67 crore in 2006-07, the temple received 38.916 kg of gold and 77.360 kg of silver as donation, he said.

To a query, he said the visit of foreign pilgrims had also increased, fetching foreign currencies worth Rs 3,25,873. Besides, during the last three years, devotees had donated immovable properties worth Rs five crore.

Asked about the improvement of basic amenities for visiting pilgrims, Mr Ashok said estimates to the tune of Rs 15 crore had been sent to the Government for approval. The estimates were for works including augumenting the existing drinking water supply, constructing modernised toilets, guest houses and cottages for VIPs, besides taking up expansion works in and around the temple, he added.

He appealed to the district administration to clear the encroachments in and around the temple.

UNI