A massive congregation of faith was witnessed at the Huligemma Devi Temple in Koppal taluk on Thursday, as an estimated three lakh devotees braved harsh cold and drizzle to seek blessings. Pilgrims from across Karnataka and neighbouring states gathered for the significant Hosthila Hunnime (full moon) event, marking a powerful display of devotion.
Shakti Scheme Fuels Pilgrimage and Infrastructure Challenges
The state government's Shakti free travel scheme played a pivotal role in significantly increasing the number of women devotees attending the event. Despite the persistent cold spell over the past week, the influx began as early as Wednesday night. Many pilgrims faced accommodation challenges due to the temple's limited infrastructure, opting to sleep in the open grounds. They woke early on Thursday, bathed in the sacred Tungabhadra River, and joined long queues for darshan.
Enhanced Security and Crowd Management Measures
Anticipating a large crowd that could extend through Friday, authorities deployed substantial security forces from Wednesday night itself. Learning from a near-stampede incident during the previous full moon, the Koppal district administration took proactive steps. Encroachments on the main road were cleared to ensure smooth movement. Key arrangements included:
- Deployment of 125 policemen, 25 officers, two KSRP squads, five DARs, and 100 home guards from Ballari.
- Installation of iron barricades at the temple's main entrance.
- Creation of separate pathways for the general public and dignitaries.
- Restriction of vehicle access near the temple to manage traffic flow.
Senior officials, including Koppal Rural CPI Suresh Doddamani and Munirabad PSI Sunil, were on-site monitoring the situation.
Continuous Inflow and Future Expectations
The influx showed no signs of abating, with trains from Hubballi, Gadag, Ballari, and Hosapete routes continuing to bring more devotees to Huligi. Police security remains heightened as a precautionary measure. Authorities estimate that over four lakh devotees will have arrived and departed over the two-day period. The meticulous planning appears to have provided a more convenient and secure experience for the public this time, managing the consistently rising number of visitors to this important spiritual site.
