Tirupati: Upset with the distribution of passes for the Independence Day celebrations, not many citizens of Tirupati are trying for the passes.
Many students were seen on Sunday seeking passes for the event near the stadium, the seating capacity of which is very low for a state-level event.
There are only 5,580 seats available for the public. Of these, 2,000 passes have been given to the protocols and national-level invitees. Some of the remaining 3,580 passes are distributed to local leaders and students.
Only 500 passes were placed online and they were taken away in not more than 10 minutes. This disappointed the citizens of Tirupati.
“A mere 500 passes for locals is too bad. The celebration could have be-en better done in Vijayawada rather than Tir-upati. The passes are being offered only to officials, students and leaders but not to the public,” said Mr Madhava Krishna of Tirupati.
“The district administration failure is seen in the selection of ground. There are many grounds in Tirupati bigger than Tarakarama stadium but they have opted this small one. Is this celebration meant for officials and leaders? questioned P. Narayana president, ABVP SVU.
Speaking to mediapersons, collector P.S. Pra-dyumna said, “We have released 500 passes onli-ne on Sunday morning. We have given 2,000 pa-sses for protocols. If po-ssible, we will once aga-in issue passes online.”
