Vizag District Collector Inspects Simhachalam Festival Arrangements

Visakhapatnam District Collector M. Abhishikth Kishore, alongside Police Commissioner Shanka Brata Bagchi and GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg, conducted an inspection of preparations for the annual Chandanotsavam festival at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Simhachalam. Scheduled for April 20, 2026, the event requires rigorous logistical planning. The Collector emphasized the importance of effective queue management, the deployment of trained personnel, and a streamlined QR code-based entry system to handle devotee influx. Officials were directed to ensure adequate facilities, including shelters, drinking water, medical teams, and clear signage. Additionally, crowd regulation at prasadam distribution counters and transport monitoring were reviewed to maintain order. In a significant update regarding access, temple authorities announced that bank-based ticket sales would cease from April 17. Tickets will exclusively be available through the official government website and the 'Mana Mitra' WhatsApp service. Specific quotas have been allocated for online and WhatsApp bookings at price points of ₹300 and ₹1,000. Devotees are strongly advised to book in advance to secure their slots and ensure a smooth darshan experience, avoiding last-minute complications during the religious festivities.