Medaram in Mulugu district is witnessing an unprecedented surge of devotees as the Jatara continues to draw lakhs of pilgrims from across Telangana and neighbouring states. The heavy influx has resulted in congestion at several key points, especially near the sacred gaddes, where devotees gather in large numbers to offer prayers and take part in traditional rituals.
The continuous movement of pilgrims has made crowd management a challenging task, with long queues and slow movement reported throughout the day. Authorities have been deployed at multiple locations to regulate the flow of devotees and ensure safety amid the overwhelming turnout.
Cold Conditions Near Jampanna Vagu Add to Devotees’ Hardships
Adding to the challenges, the areas surrounding the Jampanna Vagu are experiencing intense cold conditions, particularly during early morning and late evening hours. Devotees who enter the stream for ritual bathing are finding it difficult to cope with the low temperatures, leading to a growing demand for hot water in the vicinity.
Many pilgrims, including elderly devotees and families with children, are seen waiting for warm water after bathing, highlighting the physical strain faced during the pilgrimage.
Vendors Step In, Selling Hot Water at ₹50 per Bucket
To meet this demand, vendors near the Jampanna Vagu have set up makeshift arrangements to boil water using temporary stoves. The hot water is being sold at ₹50 per bucket, and with the steady stream of devotees, sales have increased significantly.
Due to the massive crowds and continuous demand, vendors are reportedly selling large quantities of hot water throughout the day. This informal service has become a notable aspect of the Medaram pilgrimage this season, reflecting how basic necessities turn into high-demand resources during large religious gatherings.
Authorities Monitor Situation Amid Heavy Footfall
The local administration and police are closely monitoring the situation to manage crowd movement and maintain order near sensitive areas. Officials are focusing on ensuring smooth access to the gaddes and preventing overcrowding near the stream.
Devotees are being advised to exercise caution, follow official instructions, and plan their visits during non-peak hours wherever possible. Medical teams and emergency services have also been kept on alert as a precautionary measure.
Medaram Jatara Highlights Scale and Logistical Challenges
The Medaram Jatara once again underscores the scale of devotion associated with the festival, while also bringing attention to the logistical challenges that arise when lakhs of people congregate at a single location. The demand for essentials like hot water highlights the need for better-planned facilities to support pilgrims during extreme weather conditions.
As the Jatara continues, authorities are expected to strengthen arrangements to ensure that devotees can participate safely and comfortably in the sacred celebrations.