Officials directed to ensure safety, convenience of devotees for Sivaratri

Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy directed officials to give top priority to the safety, convenience and timely darshan of devotees during the upcoming Maha Sivaratri, with special emphasis on ordinary pilgrims.

Reviewing arrangements through a video conference on Tuesday, the Minister assessed preparedness at major Shiva temples across the State, including Srisailam Mallikarjuna Swamy temple, Srikalahasti, Kotappakonda and others. Anticipating a surge in pilgrims during Maha Sivaratri and the ongoing Brahmotsavams, he asked officials to put in place a robust plan.

The Minister instructed Endowments, police and district administrations to work in close coordination and continuously monitor crowd management, facilities and security. He stressed that devotees, particularly those travelling from distant places after undertaking vows and austerities, should not face any inconvenience, and must be ensured quick darshan and timely accommodation.

Mr. Ramanarayana Reddy assured that there would be no compromise on pilgrim safety or comfort. He said officials must not interfere in temple rituals, festivals and agamic practices, while ensuring strict adherence to the Standard Operating Procedures issued by the Endowments Commissioner.

He also directed that temple premises must be kept clean at all times and basic amenities such as drinking water, milk, biscuits and timely distribution of ‘prasadam’ be ensured without delay. VIP and common devotees should be given equal importance within allotted schedules, he said.

Principal Secretary Hari Jawahar Lal, Commissioner K. Ramachandra Mohan and senior Endowments officials participated in the review.