Belagavi: In the run-up to Banada Hunnime, the Savadatti Yellamma Temple administration has stepped up preparations to manage the large influx of devotees expected from Belagavi district, Maharashtra and neighbouring regions.To ease congestion at the hill shrine, vehicle parking has been arranged across nearly 100 acres at the foothills. For the first time, a veterinary clinic will be set up on the hilltop to treat animals brought by devotees travelling in bullock carts.Temple authorities said more than one lakh devotees are expected to visit the shrine daily during the 15-day yatra leading up to Banada Hunnime on Jan 13. On the main day, the number is expected to touch 8-10 lakh. Additional water tankers have been deployed and high-mast lamps installed at 25 locations to ensure adequate lighting across the hill.The temple usually witnesses peak footfall four to five days before Banada Hunnime. In view of this, darshan arrangements, sanitation, drinking water supply and electrical lighting have been strengthened. Special pujas will be performed daily during the jatra.A total of 460 rooms have been made available for pilgrims. While four devotees are normally allowed per room, the limit has been temporarily increased to five or six during the jatra. Room bookings have begun, and special darshan will be available through ticket purchase.Traffic regulation has been given priority to prevent bottlenecks during peak hours. As per tradition, special pujas will begin at 4am. The temple will be open for darshan from 6am to 4pm, close briefly for rituals, and reopen from 6pm until late night.Cellphone-charging facilities have been set up at 20 locations, said NS Cholin, an official of Renuka Yellamma Temple Development Authority. The health dept will establish medical centres for devotees and livestock during the jatra.Necessary arrangements are put in place as devotees are expected to start arriving from Monday, officials said.
