Team Goemkarponn
PORVORIM: Ahead of the upcoming Shri Devi Lairai Jatra at Shirgao, the state government has placed a detailed safety and crowd-management plan before the High Court, outlining multiple measures aimed at ensuring the safety of thousands of devotees expected to attend the annual event.
During Wednesday’s hearing, the government informed the court that it would examine the suggestions put forward by petitioners and incorporate feasible safety and infrastructure improvements.
As part of the proposed arrangements, CCTV cameras have been installed across the temple premises and key approach roads. Authorities will also operate a Joint Command Centre to monitor crowd movement and coordinate emergency response in real time.
To streamline the flow of devotees, specific entry and exit routes have been earmarked. Officials have also imposed a ban on stalls along the temple-to-Tali stretch to prevent bottlenecks and reduce congestion during peak hours.
The government further stated that a joint task force comprising officials from the police, PWD, electricity and health departments has been constituted to oversee preparations and ensure inter-departmental coordination. In addition, special training sessions focusing on discipline and protocol have been conducted for Dhonds participating in the rituals.
The state also assured the High Court that a decision regarding the dismissal of the Devasthan Committee would be taken within four weeks. In the event of dismissal, the temple administration may be placed under a government-appointed administrator on a temporary basis to ensure smooth conduct of the jatra.
