The annual Giri Pradakshina of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy at Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, is slated for July 28‑29, drawing devotees from across India and abroad. In preparation, District Collector Abhishikt Kishore, Police Commissioner Shankabratha Bagchi, GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg and senior officials inspected the 32‑km circumambulation trail on Friday.

Key Checkpoints Along the Route

The inspection covered crucial nodes such as Tholi Pavancha, Adavivaram, Hanumanthawaka, Appughar, Madhavadhar and several other high‑traffic spots. Collectors emphasized Tholi Pavancha, the starting point where pilgrims break coconuts before commencing the trek. Officials were instructed to draft a comprehensive operational plan drawing on lessons from the previous year.

Safety and Amenities

Collector Kishore placed pilgrim safety at the top of the agenda, urging close coordination with police for traffic regulation and crowd control. He ordered the erection of clear directional signboards and the establishment of special assistance centres for children, senior citizens and other vulnerable devotees. Water, buttermilk distribution points, temporary shelters, mobile toilets, medical camps and sanitation facilities were also reviewed.

Senior Officials on the Ground

GVMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Naresh, Additional Commissioner Satyaveni, Chief Engineer Satyanarayana Rao, Gopalapatnam Police Station Inspector Sanyasi Naidu and other senior officers participated in the review, ensuring that no pilgrim faces inconvenience during the two‑day event.

Looking Ahead

This meticulous pre‑event inspection underscores the importance of administrative diligence in large‑scale religious gatherings. By fostering inter‑departmental collaboration and prioritising pilgrim welfare, the administration aims to deliver a safe, orderly and spiritually enriching experience.