Devotees flock to Tiruchendur ahead of ‘Soorasamharam’

The district police have strengthened security and logistical arrangements, as devotees have begun arriving at Subramanya Swami temple in Tiruchendur ahead of the sixth day of kanda sashti festival, which falls on Monday.

The festival, which began with gaiety and fervour on October 22 (Wednesday), has been drawing a steady stream of devotees to the temple. The festival’s highlight, Soorasamharam, is to be held on the sixth day and traditionally attracts lakhs of visitors from various parts of the State. The event holds immense significance, as the Tiruchendur sea shore is believed to be the site where Lord Subramanya Swamy defeated the demon Soorapadman, according to Hindu mythology.

In anticipation of the massive influx of devotees, the district police have issued detailed guidleines regarding parkng facilities and temporary bus stands to facilitate smooth movement. Hotels and lodges acrross Tiruchendur have reported almost full bookings, reflecting the scale of the festival.

The district administration has also taken pro active steps to ensure esential amenities for the large crowds. Measures include provison of drinking water, mobile toilets and medical facilities across the festival grounds to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all visitors.

Thoothukud MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi inspected the temple premises on Saturday and held a meeting with department officials ro review the arrangements and ensure the safey of devotees.

Speaking to media persons, she said around 4,000 police personnel had been deployed for security. Additionally, 250 CCTV cameras had been installed and a dedicated control room had been set up for monitoring the crowds.

Medical preparedness had also been prioritised, with around 20 doctors and 50 nurses expected to be on duty, supported by 14 ambulances. For the convininece of the public, 400 toiltes had been installed. For crowd management along the sea shore, volunteers and police personeel would be deployed and eight boats had been arranged to monitor activities in the water.

Transport arrangements had been reinforced as well. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation had arranged around 450 buses from different locations to facilitate easy access for devotees visiting the temple.