Stree Sakthi Scheme likely to increase rush atop Indrakeeladri during Dasara festivities

With the government having implemented the ‘Stree Sakthi Scheme’ (free ride for Women on APSRTC buses), officials expect a rush of about 20 lakh during Dasara festivities this year.

The government launched the scheme on Independence Day, and heavy rush has since been seen on City, Metro, Palle Velugu and Express buses in the State. Dasara festivities will be organised from September 22 to October 2, atop Indrakeeladri and the Endowments department is making arrangements for it.

“We discussed the likely surge in devotee rush due to the scheme during the festivities. Arrangements are being made accordingly,” said NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha.

About 10 lakh devotees will have darshan of the idol during Dasara Navaratri festivities. This year, the utsavams will be celebrated for 12 days, including ‘teppotsavam’, the Collector said.

The Tirumala Annual Brahmotsavams, to be celebrated from September 24 to October 2, the ongoing Assembly sessions and the Dasara Utsavalu being organised by the NTR district administration may also contribute to the rush.

Commissioner of Police S.V. Rajashekar Babu said feed from 500 CCTV cameras was being sent to the Model Guest House, where Police, Revenue, Fire, Endowments, Municipal Corporation, Medical and Health and other departments will monitor the situation round-the-clock during the festivities.

“Police will keep a tab on social media groups. A special team has been constituted to monitor social media platforms,” he said.

Additional outposts will be arranged at the bus and railway stations to prevent chain snatching and thefts, according to police.