‘Better roads, cleanliness making temple town global destination'
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Temples are not just places of worship — they are also centres of economic activity and pride, said author Akshat Gupta while speaking at a session on 'Life, Travel and Play: The Real Impact of Infrastructure in New Uttar Pradesh', held during TOI Dialogues on Thursday.
The panel brought together voices from literature, sports, and cinema to decode the transformative role of infrastructure in people's everyday lives.
Gupta, known for his writings on Indian mythology and history, said that the state's temple cities like Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura, and Chitrakoot were witnessing cultural and economic revival. "Better roads, cleanliness, lighting, and transport facilities are turning temple towns into global destinations.
Pilgrimage is no longer an isolated activity—it's a driver of jobs, hospitality, and connectivity," he said.
Former Indian cricketer RP Singh highlighted the rise of sports infrastructure across Uttar Pradesh. "From Basti to Bareilly and Prayagraj to Saharanpur, we are now seeing stadiums coming up. This encourages youth to take sports seriously," he said.
Singh applauded the govt's investment in sports academies and rural outreach, which have improved access and exposure for young athletes.
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"Sports should be taught as a subject in schools and colleges to make India a sporting nation. Though we have progressed on the world stage, we need to do better," he added.
Actress and social activist Gul Panag brought in a personal and gendered perspective on travel and mobility. "As someone who travels frequently by road and air, I can confidently say that connectivity in Uttar Pradesh has vastly improved. The expressways, well-lit highways, and increasing number of airports make travel smoother and safer — especially for solo women travellers," she said.
Panag pointed out that the 'ease of movement' also supports working women, small entrepreneurs, and tourism operators by reducing time and logistical challenges. She also appealed to the govt to start programmes that inculcate education about civic sense — and ensure its enforcement.
All three panellists agreed that infrastructure is not just about cement and steel, but about access, dignity, and aspiration.
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