Attukal Pongala Festival Achieves Record Participation Through Coordinated Civic Efforts
In Thiruvananthapuram, the annual Attukal Pongala festival was conducted with remarkable success this year, marked by unprecedented levels of participation and meticulous planning. Mayor V V Rajesh announced on Wednesday that the event's smooth execution was a direct result of collaborative efforts involving the city corporation, various government departments, voluntary organizations, religious institutions, residents' associations, and local clubs.
Unprecedented Turnout and Early Preparations
According to estimates from the police and the temple trust, this year's festival witnessed the highest-ever attendance in its history, underscoring its growing significance. The newly elected council demonstrated swift action by convening its first preparatory meeting for Pongala just four days after assuming office. By February 17, road works on 29 stretches, as demanded by councillors, were completed to ensure safe and accessible routes for devotees.
Addressing Water Scarcity and Sanitation Challenges
To combat the city's drinking water shortage, the corporation deployed one water tanker in each of the 52 wards, supplemented by eight additional tankers stationed near the temple premises. On the festival day, temporary tanks were installed, supplying thousands of litres of water to participants. Mayor Rajesh emphasized that the free tankers were only withdrawn from wards after confirming that water scarcity issues had been fully resolved.
Sanitation efforts were equally robust, with a total of 3,500 workers deployed to manage waste removal. They successfully cleared 811 tonnes of waste, utilizing 210 tipper lorries and four JCBs to handle materials like used bricks, all cleared before midnight. The waste was transported efficiently using 134 large trucks and 48 smaller vehicles, ensuring a clean environment throughout the event.
Enhanced Security and Multi-Departmental Coordination
Security was a top priority, with 1,700 additional women police personnel deployed to manage the large crowds. CCTV cameras were installed at multiple strategic locations, and photographs of known offenders were displayed to deter incidents such as chain-snatching and pickpocketing. Assistance from Tamil Nadu police was also sought to bolster safety measures.
Mayor Rajesh acknowledged the coordinated efforts of key departments, including KSRTC, railways, health, and fire and safety services. He noted that review meetings led by the chief minister and other ministers played a crucial role in streamlining operations, ensuring that all aspects of the festival were managed effectively.
