Coimbatore Police Ramp Up Security for Thaipoosam Festival at Marudhamalai Temple
In anticipation of the Thaipoosam festival scheduled for February 1 (Sunday), the Coimbatore city police have significantly bolstered security arrangements at the Marudhamalai Subramaniaswamy Temple. This move comes as authorities prepare for an expected surge in devotees, with the festival falling on a weekend this year, likely drawing a larger crowd compared to previous celebrations.
Record Turnout Expected with Enhanced Crowd Management
Last year, the Thaipoosam festival witnessed an impressive turnout of over two lakh visitors at the Marudhamalai Subramaniaswamy Temple. Given that the festival coincides with a weekend this time, officials are projecting an even higher number of attendees. Devotees from across Coimbatore district and neighboring regions are expected to begin arriving as early as Saturday, necessitating robust planning to handle the influx.
In collaboration with the Hindu religious and charitable endowments department, the city police have implemented extensive measures to manage the crowd effectively and mitigate risks associated with overcrowding, such as potential crimes.
Innovative Queue System and Transportation Plans
For the first time, a block-based queue system has been introduced to ensure orderly darshan (viewing of the deity) at the temple. This system organizes devotees into four distinct blocks, each accommodating up to 1,500 people at a time. The queue extends from the parking area to the temple entrance, with groups being allowed in sequentially after the previous one completes their darshan.
To enhance comfort, temporary shelters have been erected in various areas to protect devotees from the sun. Additionally, at the foothill of Marudhamalai, clear directions have been established: those opting for bus travel to the temple will be guided to the right side of the ground, while those climbing the steps will be directed to the left. Ten minibuses and three regular buses have been arranged to operate on the hill road, facilitating smooth transportation for visitors.
Comprehensive Security Deployment
Approximately 1,500 police personnel have been deployed on shifts to maintain security at Marudhamalai. Special teams have been formed to monitor the crowd closely and prevent incidents like pickpocketing, chain snatching, and robbery. In a related effort, 500 police personnel will also be stationed at the Sangameswarar Temple in Kottaimedu on Saturday and Sunday to ensure security and prevent any communal issues.
These proactive steps underscore the authorities' commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful Thaipoosam festival for all attendees, reflecting a blend of traditional devotion and modern crowd management techniques.
