District Collector V Saravanan conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements for the upcoming Vaikunta Ekadasi festival at the renowned Srirangam Arulmigu Aranganathaswamy Temple in Trichy. The significant religious event is scheduled to be held from December 19 to January 9.
High-Level Meeting for Festival Coordination
Anticipating a massive influx of devotees, especially for the auspicious opening of the Paramapatha Vasal on December 30, Collector Saravanan chaired a crucial coordination meeting on the temple premises itself. The meeting brought together senior officials from the police, revenue, temple administration, and civic bodies to ensure seamless execution of all plans.
Key Directives for Safety and Convenience
The Collector issued specific instructions to various departments to prioritize devotee safety and comfort. The primary focus areas include:
- Smooth crowd and traffic management to handle the expected heavy footfall.
- Ensuring uninterrupted drinking water supply and enhanced sanitation facilities throughout the temple complex.
- Providing safe bathing arrangements at the Padithurai and adequate lighting at the Amma Mandapam.
- Deployment of mobile toilet units and positioning of fire engines at strategic points for emergency response.
- Stationing medical teams with ambulances inside the temple to offer immediate assistance.
Infrastructure and Additional Measures
Officials have been directed to undertake several infrastructural and logistical improvements. These measures involve removing encroachments, repairing approach roads, and covering open drains for safety. Furthermore, authorities will ensure strict food safety compliance for eateries, maintain round-the-clock CCTV surveillance, and keep generators on standby for uninterrupted power supply.
To facilitate easy travel for pilgrims, the administration has coordinated with transport authorities. Special trains will operate on December 29, 30, and 31, and additional bus services will be arranged to manage the extra passenger load during the peak festival days.
The proactive review meeting underscores the administration's commitment to conducting the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival in a secure, orderly, and spiritually fulfilling manner for all devotees visiting the sacred Srirangam temple.
