Kodagu District In-charge Minister N. S. Bhosaraju has directed officials to make all necessary preparations for the Holy Kaveri Theerthodbhava to be held at Talakaveri on October 17.
The minister addressed a preliminary meeting held on Monday at the auditorium of the old mud shed building of Bhagamandala Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple. He issued strict instructions to ensure that devotees at Talakaveri are not inconvenienced in any way during the Holy Theerthodbhava.
This year, the Theerthodbhava will occur on October 17 at 1.44 pm. Anticipating a large number of devotees, the minister instructed officials to take adequate measures. The police department has been asked to make necessary security arrangements. The transport department has been directed to provide bus facilities, while the Cauvery Irrigation Corporation, CESC, District Health and Family Welfare Department and other concerned departments have been instructed to make necessary preparations at their respective levels.
He emphasized strict adherence to district administration guidelines, inter-departmental coordination, cleanliness, provision of drinking water and temporary toilets for devotees.
Various puja programs will commence from September 26. Any issues arising should be reported to the District Collector or the MLA for resolution.
MLA A. S. Ponnanna, Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, advised devotees to ensure that their actions do not cause inconvenience. He emphasized the importance of providing basic facilities and urged departments to take appropriate steps in this regard.
Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja assured that the municipal council and local bodies would emphasize cleanliness and deploy necessary personnel. District Superintendent of Police K. Ramarajan highlighted the risk of stampedes during the event and requested devotees to cooperate with the authorities. CCTV cameras, barricades, parking and traffic arrangements will also be put in place.
MLA A. S. Ponnanna further directed that last year’s shortcomings be rectified and additional buses arranged for the Bhagamandala-Talakaveri route. He announced that passengers will be allowed to travel free of cost during the pilgrimage.
During the meeting, various stakeholders including KSRTC officials, irrigation engineers, local leaders and community members put forth suggestions related to road development, illumination, check dam construction, cultural programs, liquor sale ban, health facilities and communication network issues. The minister and officials assured that necessary steps would be taken to address these concerns.
