District Collector M. Raghunandana Rao reviewed the arrangements being made for relinquishment of ‘Bhavani Deekshalu’ starting on December 23, in the city along with Police Commissioner B. Sreenivasulu on Friday. They visited the bathing ghats and the route of circumambulation (‘Giripradakshina’) and issued necessary instructions to the officials concerned.
Later, speaking to media persons, Mr. Raghunandana Rao said elaborate arrangements are being for the annual event keeping the possibility of the number of devotees thronging Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam touching a few lakhs.
Plan of action The officials of Vijayawada Municipal Corporation and Revenue and Police Departments were asked to have proper plans of action for conducting the event without any untoward incident.
Due priority has to be given to drinking water facility, sanitation, setting up rooms for changing dresses and toilets in order to cater to the heavy rush and also providing medical aid to the needy.
Encroachments on the route of ‘Giripradakshina’ are to be removed for the convenience of devotees.
The Collector said instructions were given for completing the arrangements by December 17.
Strong fencing is to be provided around the ‘Homagundam’ and queue lines maintained in order.
Police Commissioner Sreenivasulu said the number of devotees could cross seven lakh and in view of the magnitude of the task, which is to maintain peace, police personnel were being mobilised from the neighbouring districts. Closed circuit cameras are being installed for ensuring foolproof security.
Joint Collector P. Usha Kumari, Sub-Collector D. Harichandana, Deputy Commissioner of Police M. Ravi Prakash and others participated.
Temple Executive Officer V. Trinadha Rao said an action plan was prepared for making 14 lakh ‘laddus’ in view of rush of devotees. Other necessary instructions were issued to the temple staff.