Authorities are anticipating a colossal turnout of nearly 20 lakh devotees for this year’s Dasara festivities, a significant increase attributed directly to the government’s recently launched ‘Stree Sakthi Scheme.’ This initiative grants women free travel on Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses, making the pilgrimage more accessible than ever before.
Since its launch on Independence Day, the ‘Stree Sakthi Scheme’ has already led to a noticeable surge in passengers across various APSRTC services, including City, Metro, Palle Velugu, and Express buses throughout the state. The Dasara celebrations, which are scheduled to run for 12 days from September 22 to October 2, will take place atop the revered Indrakeeladri hill. The Endowments department is diligently working on comprehensive arrangements to accommodate the anticipated crowds.
NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha confirmed the proactive measures being taken: “We’ve thoroughly discussed the expected surge in devotee numbers due to the scheme during these festivities, and our arrangements are being scaled up to match.”
Historically, about 10 lakh devotees visit for ‘darshan’ during the nine-day Dasara Navaratri. However, this year’s ‘utsavams’ (festivities) will extend to 12 days, incorporating the special ‘teppotsavam’ (boat festival), further increasing the potential for higher attendance, as highlighted by the Collector.
Adding to the anticipated congestion are other significant events happening concurrently: the Tirumala Annual Brahmotsavams (September 24 to October 2) and the ongoing Assembly sessions. These factors, alongside the Dasara Utsavalu organized by the NTR district administration, are expected to collectively contribute to the substantial pilgrim rush.
Commissioner of Police S.V. Rajashekar Babu detailed the security preparations, stating that live feeds from 500 CCTV cameras will be channeled to the Model Guest House. Here, a dedicated team comprising personnel from Police, Revenue, Fire, Endowments, Municipal Corporation, Medical & Health, and other essential departments will maintain vigilance and monitor the situation continuously throughout the festivities.
He further added, “Our police teams will also be actively monitoring social media groups. A specialized unit has been established specifically for this purpose, ensuring swift response to any issues arising online.”
To enhance safety and deter crime, particularly chain snatching and thefts, additional police outposts are being set up at key transit points, including bus and railway stations, according to the police department.