Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister S. Ramesh on Saturday inspected the preparedness measures ahead of Swami Nellaiyappar temple ‘Aani’ car festival scheduled for Sunday and the Karayar Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple.

Addressing the media after conducting inspection at Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple, he said that thousands of devotees are expected to visit the temple in view of upcoming ‘Aadi amavasi.’ He added that a consultation meeting will be held soon with all department officials regarding the necessary arrangements for devotees, including accommodation, transportation, drinking water, sanitation and other necessary facilities.

He added that a detailed master plan has been directed to be prepared for the Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple to provide complete basic facilities.

Mr. Ramesh noted that steps will be taken to develop the temple, which is located in a protected forest area, subject to consultation with and permission from the Forest department.

He further stated that continuous inspection will be carried out to improve the facilities for devotees to worship with satisfaction, not only in Tiruchendur Subramanya Swamy temple, but in all major temples across Tamil Nadu.

During the inspection, the minister has instructed the officials to carry out proper cleaning work in temple premises and surrounding areas and to take necessary precaution to ensure the safety of devotees bathing in rivers.

Addressing the media in Tirunelveli, he said that all preparation measures have been made to ensure the annual procession of Swamy Nellaiyappar temple, including elaborate security arrangements by police and temple administration to ensure that no untoward incident occurs during the procession.

He added that for the convenience of devotees sign boards have been installed at various places to make it easier for the public to know about basic facilities, including toilets and drinking water facilities.

Mr. Ramesh further stated that consultations have been held with officials regarding the purchase of an elephant for the Nellaiyappar Swamy temple and steps will be taken to bring the elephant following the government’s instructions.