Ensure foolproof traffic plan for Giri Pradakshina, Collector tells officials

District Collector M. Abhishikth Kishore on Thursday directed officials to put in place foolproof traffic management and diversion measures for the Giri Pradakshina of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple on July 28 and 29, when lakhs of devotees are expected to participate.

Chairing a second-round review meeting at the Collectorate, he said route maps detailing diversions, alternative routes and no-vehicle zones should be publicised well in advance through the media and social media.

Heavy vehicles entering the city from Srikakulam and Vizianagaram would be diverted towards Sabbavaram from the Anandapuram highway, while cars and two-wheelers would take the service road at Asakapalli to reach the city via Sheela Nagar. The stretch from Hanumanthawaka to Maddilapalem would be a no-vehicle zone from 3 p.m. on July 28 until midnight, as would the stretch from Kurupam Junction to Appughar on Beach Road. A dedicated corridor would be kept open for ambulances.

The Collector asked officials to examine declaring a holiday for educational institutions on July 28, and to arrange drinking water, bio-toilets, medical camps, rest centres and control rooms along the 32-km route.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg, Joint Collector G. Vidyadhari, DCPs Mary Prashanthi and Manikanta, and temple Executive Officer J. Venkata Rao attended.