Madurai Police Announce Traffic Diversions for Annual Meenakshi Temple Float Festival
In preparation for the highly anticipated annual float festival of the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, the Madurai city police have issued a comprehensive set of traffic diversions and restrictions. The sacred event is scheduled to take place at the historic Mariamman Teppakulam on Sunday, drawing thousands of devotees from across the region.
Key Traffic Restrictions and Timings
According to official police sources, the traffic diversions will be strictly enforced during two specific time slots to facilitate a smooth and orderly celebration. The restrictions are set to be in effect from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and again from 3:00 PM until the conclusion of the festivities. These measures are designed to ensure the safety and convenience of the large crowds expected to participate in this revered religious occasion.
Detailed Diversion Plans for Various Routes
The police have outlined several specific diversion routes to manage the influx of vehicles and pedestrians effectively:
- Vehicles from Anna Nagar: Traffic originating from Anna Nagar will not be permitted to access the Teppakulam via the Vaigai North Bank Road and the PTR Bridge. Devotees arriving from this direction are advised to park their vehicles along the North Bank Road and proceed to the tank on foot using the bridge.
- Commuters to Viraganur Ring Road: Those heading towards the Viraganur Ring Road from Anna Nagar must take an alternative route through Suguna Store Junction, Aravind Eye Hospital Junction, and Kuruvikkaran Salai Bridge to reach the Vaigai South Bank Road.
- Vehicles from Aavin and Kuruvikkaran Salai: All vehicles, including government buses, arriving from Aavin and Kuruvikkaran Salai with destinations in Viraganur must navigate via the Kuruvikkaran Salai South Bank Junction and follow the Vaigai South Bank Road. Entry into the city from the Viraganur Ring Road junction via Teppakulam is strictly prohibited, with such traffic being diverted through the Vaigai South Bank Road towards Kuruvikkaran Salai Junction.
- Traffic from Ganesh Theatre Junction: Movement from Ganesh Theatre Junction towards Teppakulam, Viraganur, or Anna Nagar is also restricted. Government buses and private vehicles from Periyar bus stand heading towards the Ring Road via Munichalai must turn left at Ganesh Theatre Junction and proceed through Kuruvikkaran Salai.
- Vehicles from Anuppanadi: No vehicles will be allowed to proceed towards the city from Anuppanadi via Teppakulam. Devotees from this area are requested to park their two-wheelers at Teachers Colony. Commuters traveling from Munichalai Road to Anuppanadi must take a detour via Munichalai Junction, New Ramanathapuram Road, and Gatelock Road.
Parking and Convenience Arrangements
To accommodate the devotees, the police have designated specific parking areas and established temporary facilities:
- Two-wheeler Parking: A dedicated parking zone for two-wheelers has been set up between Ganesh Theatre Junction and the Kannan departmental store.
- Public Parking: Devotees coming from the Ring Road can park their vehicles on the South Bank Road or near the Old Ramanathapuram Road checkpost.
- Temporary Bus Stop: A temporary bus stop has been established near the Mugaideen Andavar petrol bunk to enhance public convenience during the festival.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
The Madurai police have earnestly urged the public and devotees to cooperate fully with these traffic arrangements. By adhering to the diversions and guidelines, attendees can contribute to a hassle-free and spiritually enriching celebration of this holy event. The authorities emphasize that these measures are implemented with the sole intention of ensuring a safe and seamless experience for all participants.
