As part of preparations for the consecration ceremony of the Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, overgrown trees surrounding the temple in Madurai were being pruned.
| Photo Credit: R. ASHOK
In preparation for the consecration ceremony of the Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple on September 17, civic works, including road repairs, pavement construction and tree pruning, have accelerated.Multiple departments, including the Police, Fire and Rescue Services, Health and Public Works, are collaborating closely to ensure safe and seamless arrangements for devotees.Fire Department officials said five fire and rescue vehicles would be stationed around the Chithirai streets as part of the safety preparations. Additionally, two emergency rescue tenders would also be deployed at key locations to handle any incidents on the day of the ceremony.The official added that with the rituals (yagam) beginning on September 11, a team of 30 firefighters would be deployed on a rotational basis for the morning and evening sessions at the site.A quick-response vehicle would also be stationed near the ritual area to manage any emergencies during the ceremonies.“A 12-litre water tank equipped with a pump will be set up near the yaaga salai for immediate water supply if needed. On the day of the ceremony, the upper deck where the main procedures take place will be divided into seven zones to accommodate the expected 11,000 devotees, with five firefighters stationed in each zone,” he said.“Four firefighters will also be stationed at the Raja Gopuram to handle any immediate rescues. Additionally, 40-foot ladders will be positioned at specific spots to help temple authorities and devotees access the upper sections of the temple for the ceremonies,” he said.Anticipating a massive turnout on the day of the ceremony, 400 firefighters from districts including Madurai, Tiruchi, Tirunelveli and Coimbatore will be deployed on September 17.The official also said that a joint mock drill with the Health Department would be conducted on September 12 to test the arrangements and identify any gaps or requirements. Published - September 09, 2026 06:51 pm IST
