After a tragic incident involving a suspected wild animal attack on a young girl near Tirumala, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has taken significant steps to enhance the safety and security of devotees.
New Safety Measures Implemented
TTD Chairman B Karunakara Reddy held a high-level meeting with officials and introduced several measures:
· Self-Defense Sticks: Devotees trekking the footpath will receive wooden sticks for self-defense.
· Restricted Trekking Hours: Parents with children below 12 can trek from 5 am to 2 pm. Others are allowed till 10 pm.
· Vehicle Timing: Two-wheelers allowed on ghat roads between 6 am and 6 pm.
· Expert Forest Staff: Staff with expertise in handling wild animal encounters will be appointed.
· Group Entry: Devotees allowed in groups with a security guard.
· Food Ban and Waste Management: Offering food to animals banned. Hoteliers instructed to manage food waste responsibly.
· Enhanced Surveillance: Installation of 500 CCTVs, potential use of drone cameras, and wildlife outposts.
· Fencing and Signages: Consideration for fencing, signages, and safety cautions along the route.
Tragic Incident Sparks Safety Measures
The safety initiative follows the tragic discovery of a six-year-old girl’s body after a suspected bear attack near Tirumala. The incident prompted the community to prioritize safety measures for devotees.
Detailed Account of Incident
According to TTD’s Chief Vigilance and Security Officer, the young girl went missing while trekking with her family. Shopkeepers found her once but she disappeared again and couldn’t be located.
Commitment to Devotee Safety
TTD’s swift response underscores their commitment to safeguarding devotees. These measures aim to create a safer environment for all, ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future.
