Officials Face Criticism Over Mothegadda Temple Arrangements
Devotees Gather in Large Numbers at Mothegadda Temple on Maha Shivaratri
Large crowds assembled at the Sri Veerabhadra Swamy temple in Mothegadda, located in the Burgampadu mandal of Bhadradri Kothagudem district, on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri. The temple, situated in the middle of the Godavari river, witnessed heavy footfall from early morning.
However, difficulties in crossing the river led to long waiting hours for many devotees. With limited boats available, thousands remained stranded on the riverbank, unable to reach the temple for darshan.
Crowd Management Draws Criticism
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Devotees expressed dissatisfaction over the arrangements made for the annual festival. Despite the known surge in visitors during Maha Shivaratri every year, preparations were seen as inadequate by those present at the site.
Due to the limited number of boats, some devotees reportedly waited for three to four hours under the sun for their turn to cross the river. Elderly persons, women, and children faced particular difficulty during the wait.
Shortage of Boats Increases Waiting Time
Many devotees had arrived early in the day for darshan but were unable to proceed due to the shortage of boats. The absence of additional transport arrangements in view of the heavy rush resulted in extended delays along the riverbank.
Concerns were also raised over overcrowding in boats, with reports that passengers were being taken beyond safe capacity levels. The situation added to the anxiety among devotees waiting for their turn.
Safety and Basic Facilities Under Scrutiny
With a large turnout at the ghats, safety measures and basic amenities were described as insufficient by visitors. Arrangements for crowd control, security presence, and public facilities did not meet expectations on the festival day.
Local residents have urged the district administration to respond immediately by deploying additional boats and improving arrangements to prevent inconvenience to devotees during the ongoing festival period.
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