TTD to act against devotee filmed smoking on Alipiri footpath

A video appeared online showing a person smoking cigarettes while walking up a very holy path to Tirumala, a famous temple town in India.

Many pilgrims walk this path, called Alipiri, as part of their religious journey.

Smoking and drinking alcohol are not allowed anywhere near the temple grounds.

The group that takes care of the temple, called the TTD, saw the video and was upset.

They said smoking there hurts the feelings of other visitors.

The TTD announced that it will report the person to the police.

It also warned that serious action will be taken against anyone who breaks the rules.

Security guards may face punishment if they were careless during inspections.

The rules also ban other intoxicating substances at places like Srivari Mettu.

This shows how carefully the holy site is protected.