KOCHI: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has made all arrangements at the Aluva Manappuram for the smooth conduct of Bali Tharpanam (paying obeisance to forefathers) during ‘Karkidaka Vavu’ on Sunday.
According to TDB officials, over two lakh people are expected to reach the venue. Meanwhile, arrangements have been made to enable up to 125 persons to offer Bali Tharpanam at a time. Only priests who have been certified by the TDB will be allowed to officiate the rituals. A green protocol will be in force on the banks of the Periyar, and stringent action will be initiated against those who violate the protocol.
More than 250 police personnel will be deployed at the Manappuram. Personnel of the Department of Fire and Rescue Services will also be present at the venue to meet emergencies. Moreover, officials will offer services at the ghats. Vehicle movement will not be permitted on the Manappuram road till afternoon. The organisers will request the State Disaster Management Authority to provide divers, besides deployment of a boat to conduct patrolling along the ghats.
Temporary barricades have been set up at a distance of around 200 metres along kadavus to check untoward incidents. The Navy will be also put on the alert. The Kerala Water Authority will provide drinking water to pilgrims. The District Medical Office will deploy an ambulance and provide emergency medical care at the venue. The KSEB will ensure that the area is adequately lighted up.
Meanwhile, a mass clean-up programme was conducted ahead of Vavu Bali on Friday. The police, student police cadets, NCC members, and employees of the Aluva municipality and Devaswom participated in the drive. The KSRTC will operate special services from 4 a.m. on Sunday.