District Commissioner Kumara of Mandya has issued a comprehensive set of directives to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the upcoming Ratha Saptami Brahmotsava at the historic Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple in Srirangapatna. The grand chariot festival is scheduled for January 25 and is expected to draw thousands of devotees from across the country.
Stringent Safety and Infrastructure Checks Ordered
In a detailed review, DC Kumara mandated immediate action on several fronts. Authorities have been instructed to conduct a thorough inspection of the entire chariot procession route to identify and repair any potholes or uneven surfaces. The structural integrity and quality of the chariot itself must be verified before the event.
Emergency services, including fire brigade units and ambulances, will be stationed strategically along the procession path. The DC specifically emphasized the need for proper guidance and vigilance for volunteers who place wooden wedges under the chariot wheels, a critical safety task.
Crowd Management and Devotee Amenities
Superintendent of Police Shobharani V J outlined plans for effective crowd control. Barricades will be properly installed around the temple on the day of the Brahma Rathotsava. To prevent accidents, decorations on the chariot must not exceed its safe load capacity.
Shops located directly in front of the temple will remain closed on the festival day. A dedicated help centre will be established specifically to assist women and children participating in the large fair. To combat theft in the massive crowds, watchtowers equipped with cameras will be erected for constant surveillance.
Route Preparation and Prohibitions
The DC's orders extend to the minutiae of the event's environment. The roads where the Brahma Ratha will travel must be maintained with cleanliness and decorated with electric lights. The path must be cleared of thorns and stones to make it suitable for devotees who walk barefoot.
In a unique directive aimed at preventing slips, the DC ordered that fruits, particularly bananas thrown by devotees onto the path, be cleared instantly. He also prohibited the installation of high-risk amusement rides like giant wheels during the fair. Any overhead power lines along the route must be relocated or undergo an immediate safety check.
Uma, the Executive Officer of Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, confirmed to TOI that a massive turnout is anticipated. For the convenience of devotees, a special darshan will be available for a fee of Rs 50 per person. DC Kumara stressed that the entire festival must be conducted in strict adherence to established protocol to ensure a spiritually fulfilling and incident-free celebration for all.
