Nanjangud: With thousands of devotees expected to throng Nanjangud to witness Gauthama Pancha Maharathotsava (Dodda Jathre) scheduled on Mar. 22, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. K.V. Rajendra has instructed the officials to ensure all necessary arrangements are made in the temple town for the mega event.

Addressing the preliminary meeting of officials at the temple’s Dasoha Bhavan on Tuesday, the Mysuru DC said that the Maharathotsava of Sri Srikanteshwaraswamy will be held on Mar. 22 and thousands of devotees are likely to participate.

“Officials must ensure cleanliness of the temple premises, provide drinking water and toilet facilities. Health care centres must be set up to prevent spreading of contagious diseases. Those who want to sponsor Prasada must take prior permission from authorities and a sample of the same must be tested before distributing to the devotees. Cleanliness must also be maintained around Kapila river,” he told the officials.

Continuing, he said that PWD officials must inspect five chariots and issue a safety certificate. In addition, officials must take steps to ensure sufficient water supply to river Kapila on Jathra and Theppotsava days, he added.

“Energy Department must take care of illumination of prominent roads, circles and also near the temple premises. CCTV cameras and watch towers must be installed at public places like bus stands. Police officials must make security arrangements. Chariot pullers will be given uniform by the temple,” he instructed the officials.

In view of a large footfall of devotees during Car Festival, officials must interact with respective departments to provide more buses and additional trains from Mar. 22 to 24.

MLA Darshan Dhruvanarayan, ZP Deputy Secretary Dr. M. Krishnaraju, Temple Executive Officer Jagadish, Health Officer  Eshwar Kanatke, Additional SP-2 M. Babu, Chief Priest Nagachandara Dixit and others were present at the meeting.