Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, January 17: Visakhapatnam Range Inspector General of Police, Sri Gopinath Jatti, IPS, stated that the Srikakulam District Police have made extensive security and administrative arrangements to ensure that the upcoming Rathasaptami celebrations at Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple, Arasavilli, are conducted peacefully, safely, and in an orderly manner.
On Saturday, the Range IG, along with District Superintendent of Police, Sri K.V. Maheshwar Reddy, IPS, reviewed the festival security plan with district DSPs and CIs at the Srikakulam District Police Office.
Comprehensive Field-Level Review
During the meeting, officials reviewed key arrangements including:
* Route maps and traffic plans
* Vehicle parking zones
* Queue line management
* Barricading and crowd control measures
* Free darshan and donor darshan (₹100, ₹500) arrangements
* Separate VIP darshan routes
* Prasadam counters and foot-rest points
* Devotee holding areas
* Public convenience facilities
* Emergency service coordination
Focus on Safety and Crowd Management
IG Sri Gopinath Jatti emphasized the need for close coordination between the Police, Revenue, Temple, Municipal, Medical, and other line departments. He highlighted that the primary objective is devotee safety and prevention of untoward incidents, with special focus on:
Traffic management
Crowd regulation
Emergency response mechanisms
Volunteer coordination
Faster Darshan for Public
Compared to last year, a special action plan has been prepared to make darshan for common devotees faster, smoother, and more convenient. Measures include:
* Scientific queue management
* Increased signage and indicator boards
* Dedicated volunteer support
* Enhanced shade, water, and medical facilities
Regarding VIP darshan, the IG clarified that separate entry and exit routes have been designated through the North (Vaikunta) Gate, ensuring VIP movement does not hinder common devotees. Free darshan, donor darshan, and VIP queues will not intersect.
District SP Calls for Public Cooperation
District SP Sri K.V. Maheshwar Reddy, IPS, stated that an integrated operational bandobast plan has been prepared in coordination with all departments to ensure a peaceful and successful celebration. He requested devotees to follow police instructions and cooperate during the festival.
The meeting was attended by Additional SP Sri K.V. Ramana, DSPs Vivekananda, Lakshmana Rao, Sheshadri, Circle Inspectors, and other police officers.
