How is the Tiruvannamalai district managing the massive crowd for the Karthigai Deepam festival?
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Synopsis
Explore how the Tiruvannamalai district is gearing up for the Karthigai Deepam festival, implementing extensive safety and logistical measures to ensure the smooth flow of lakhs of devotees. With a focus on crowd management, security, and health facilities, the festival promises to be a memorable spiritual experience.
Key Takeaways
- Over 15,000 police personnel will ensure safety.
- 1,060 CCTV cameras installed for monitoring.
- Expected 40-45 lakh devotees on Maha Deepam day.
- 24 temporary bus termini with special bus services.
- Health facilities with mobile medical desks and ambulances.
Chennai, Dec 1 (NationPress) As lakhs of devotees flock daily for the Karthigai Deepam festival, the Tiruvannamalai district authorities in Tamil Nadu have enacted one of the most extensive security and logistical frameworks ever to facilitate the celebrations smoothly.
The festivities commenced on November 24 and will reach their zenith with the Maha Deepam on December 3, attracting worshippers from Tamil Nadu and neighboring regions. To accommodate the immense influx of pilgrims on December 3, over 15,000 police personnel will be stationed throughout the temple town, including units overseeing 24 watchtowers at critical locations.
District Collector K. Tharpagaraj and Superintendent of Police M. Sudhakar evaluated the civic facilities surrounding the Arunachaleswarar Temple and the 14-km Girivalam path, gauging the readiness for the anticipated crowd surge.
An estimated 40-45 lakh devotees are expected in Tiruvannamalai on Maha Deepam day alone. The temple car procession held on Sunday (November 30) witnessed around six lakh devotees, providing a glimpse of the massive turnout anticipated.
To enhance monitoring, 1,060 CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the town, with 303 cameras specifically for the temple area. Authorities have identified 26 vulnerable locations, where additional safety measures such as watchtowers and police patrols are being implemented.
The district administration will set up 24 temporary bus termini on the town's outskirts, accommodating 2,325 buses. A total of 4,764 special buses will operate, covering 11,293 trips to transport devotees from various districts, particularly on December 3 and 4.
As private vehicles are prohibited within the town on Maha Deepam day to mitigate congestion, 180 shuttle services will connect the temporary bus stands and the Girivalam path/temple, charging a fare of Rs 10 per person. Additionally, 130 parking lots with space for 19,815 cars have been organized outside the town.
Jute mats will be laid along two kilometers of footpaths to aid devotees' comfort, while children will receive safety wristbands to prevent accidental separation from their families. The Health Department will deploy 85 mobile medical desks, complemented by 45 ambulances, including five bike ambulances.
The festival infrastructure will also feature 136 drinking water points, 836 washrooms (with 483 along the Girivalam route), and 1,258 streetlights across important stretches. To uphold hygiene, 3,600 sanitary workers will be employed throughout the festival.
Daily processions of deities along the Mada Streets continue to attract large crowds as the spiritual excitement builds.
The lighting of the Maha Deepam atop the 2,668-ft Arunachala hill on December 3 will signify the festival's most sacred moment, after which the celebrations will transition into the lively Theppa Thiruvizha (float festival) over the subsequent three days.
Point of View
The commitment of the Tamil Nadu authorities to ensure safety and smooth operations is commendable. The meticulous planning and execution reflect the importance of this cultural event, showcasing the spirit of the community while prioritizing the well-being of all participants.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures are in place for crowd management during the Karthigai Deepam festival?
The Tiruvannamalai district administration has deployed over 15,000 police personnel, installed 1,060 CCTV cameras, and identified vulnerable areas for additional safety measures to manage the crowd effectively.
How many devotees are expected on Maha Deepam day?
An estimated 40-45 lakh devotees are expected to visit Tiruvannamalai on Maha Deepam day alone.
What transportation arrangements are provided for devotees?
The district administration will operate 24 temporary bus termini with a capacity of 2,325 buses and will run 4,764 special buses to facilitate transportation for devotees.
What health facilities are available during the festival?
The Health Department will set up 85 mobile medical desks and deploy 45 ambulances, including bike ambulances, to ensure health services are accessible during the festival.
What amenities are provided for cleanliness and comfort during the festival?
The festival will feature 136 drinking water points, 836 washrooms, and 3,600 sanitary workers to maintain hygiene and comfort for the attendees.
