Aluva ready to host Sivarathri

KOCHI: Aluva is all set to host the Sivarathri festival on Monday when thousands of faithful will descend on the sandbank on Periyar where the new permanent foot over bridge built at a cost of Rs 14 crore will welcome them this year. The bridge, built at the initiative taken by Anwar Sadath MLA, will enable smooth movement of pilgrims from the Manalpuram to the other side of Periyar, the Aluva Kottarakkadavu.

Aluva Municipality has arranged 40 stalls as part of the trade fair at the Manalpuram in connection with the festival which will start from March 10. There will be cultural activities as well in which cultural leaders will be honoured, said Aluva Municipal chairperson Lissy Abraham.  Amusement parks too will be set up while Fire Force and police personnel will be present to assist public. A temporary municipal office will be set up at the Manalpuram. Hospital counters too will be opened.

The Rural Police said that a total of 2000 policemen will be deployed besides setting up CCTV cameras and a police control room on the Manalpuram. Ambulance services will also be available. No hawking will be allowed within 50 metre radius of the temple.

The following traffic regulations will be in place from 4 pm on Monday to 1 pm on Tuesday. All vehicles coming to Manalpuram should take GCDA road from Seminarippadi and proceed via Ayurveda Hospital road. No traffic will be allowed to Manalpuram from Thottakattukara junction. Ferrying will not be allowed at Manalpuram. No traffic will be allowed From Bank junction to Town Hall as well.