T’puram: The district administration has imposed restrictions on the people entering rivers, water bodies and the sea for performing Bali Tharpanam rituals in view of the prevailing adverse weather conditions and the possibility of heavy rain during Karkidaka Vavu.Thousands are expected to visit temples, riverbanks and coastal areas across the district on the occasion. District collector Anu Kumari said performing Bali Tharpanam by entering rivers, other water bodies or the sea has been strictly prohibited due to the possibility of strong currents and high waves.In a safety advisory issued, people have been instructed to perform the rituals only on specially arranged wooden platforms or other designated safe facilities on the banks.The administration has also directed people to strictly follow the instructions of revenue officials, police personnel, fire and rescue teams and volunteers deployed at bathing ghats and coastal areas to regulate crowds and ensure safety.People have been asked to take special care of children and elderly people accompanying them. Disaster management teams and lifeguards will be deployed at major Bali centres to prevent accidents and respond to emergencies.The district administration has urged the public to cooperate with the authorities and immediately report any emergency situation to the officials concerned.
