In Gaya, Bihar, a coalition of pilgrimage priests, local businessmen, and residents has intensified protests against the proposed Vishnupad Temple Corridor Project. They argue that the project, which aims to create a world-class tourist destination at the Vishnupad Temple, threatens the area's ancient cultural heritage and could result in the demolition of residential and commercial properties. Approved in the Union Budget 2024, the project is estimated to cost ₹2,390 crore (approximately $290 million USD) and is modeled after the Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor. Local leaders, including Swami Venkatesh Prapannacharya, have voiced concerns that the project was developed without proper consultation with those affected. They assert that the temple should remain a religious site rather than become a mere tourist attraction. In response to the protests, Gaya district magistrate Shashank Subhankar stated that he has received multiple memorandums from the public and assured that no survey or demarcation work would proceed without considering community feedback.