Ratha Saptami celebrations marred by inadequate facilities for devotees

Visakhapatnam: The Ratha Saptami celebrations at Arasavalli are scheduled to start on February 2 and continue for three days. The state government has designated this event a state festival.

In anticipation of the celebrations, various development initiatives are currently being implemented at the temple. However, the removal of certain facilities, including buildings, sheds and toilets, is set to pose considerable challenges for devotees.

Many individuals have expressed their frustration over the “negligence” of the authorities in providing temporary facilities.

The dismantling of the Annadanam and Prasadam preparation kitchen has necessitated the establishment of a temporary facility at the dormitories located behind Indra Pushkarini. Unfortunately, this alternative site lacks reliable water supply, which has resulted in prasadam preparation being conducted in verandas—an arrangement that is less than ideal.

Devotee G Soumya noted, "We are waiting in line and are compelled to endure exposure to the sun due to the removal of four sheds. No temporary tents are provided. Additionally, there is a deficiency in the provision for drinking water. One dormitory complex has been demolished, while another area remains cluttered with coconut shells, beds, mattresses, and other materials, complicating the accommodation for those reaching here from far distances."

Furthermore, devotee Madhusudhan Rao commented, "We are experiencing confusion regarding the location of the prasadam counter. Sanitation amenities are non-existent, including toilets, bathing and changing facilities. The lack of water in the hair removal area has compelled many devotees to bathe in the contaminated waters, and we are obliged to change clothing outdoors.”

“At the Nithyanandam, we are standing while consuming our meals due to the absence of seating options."

With only a few days remaining for the start of the Ratha Saptami festival, the ongoing removal of structures continues to generate uncertainty regarding the timeline for completion and the establishment of necessary arrangements.

Despite officials conducting meetings and proposing various suggestions, progress at the operational level has been inadequate. Stakeholders have expressed concern that a failure to complete these tasks in a timely manner may result in significant difficulties during the celebrations.

Officials have indicated that the removal of structures is being executed in accordance with government directives and they have assured the devotees that basic facilities will be provided to devotees upon the completion of the work.