Visakhapatnam: Sri Varaha Lakshmi Nrusimha Swamy temple on Simhachalam hill is preparing for the annual Giri Pradakshina, a 32 km walk surrounding the hill shrine, on July 9. Around three lakh devotees from AP, Telangana, Odisha and Chhattisgarh are expected to participate in the event. The event will start from the foothills and pass through areas like Paat Adavivaram, Mudusarlova, Hanumanthavaka, Jodugullapalem, Appughar, Venkojipalem, HB Colony, Muralinagar, and Madhavadhara before reaching Simhachalam.In the wake of the tragic incident during the Chandanotsavam last month, in which seven devotees were killed when a wall collapsed on the queue line, the temple management is focusing more on devotees’ safety and facilities. The temple management discussed various arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the annual festival for the devotees.Led by temple priests TP Rajagopal and Seetharama Charyulu, a meeting was held on Friday. The executive officer V Trinatha Rao emphasised the need for appropriate arrangements given the expected turnout. The 32-km Simha Giri Pradakshina will take place throughout the city.The EO directed the temple officials to coordinate with GVMC, police, medical departments, donors, and NGOs to provide support. Mobile toilets will be installed with GVMC’s assistance for sanitation. Discussions are ongoing with GVMC officials regarding electricity and drinking water facilities.
