T’puram: The KSRTC will operate 45 special services to Beemapally and Vettucaud to facilitate pilgrims and visitors attending the annual Beemapally Uroos and Vettukad Church feast, said transport minister C P John said on Wednesday.The minister announced the arrangements at a meeting held at Guest House, Thycaud, to review preparations for the two major religious events.The KSRTC will operate 20 special services to Beemapally this year, up from 14 services operated during last year’s Uroos. The buses will run through East Fort, Enchakkal, Vallakkadavu and Kallumoodu.Another 25 special services will be operated to Vettucaud, compared with 18 services last year. These services will operate through East Fort, Palayam and Valiyathura.Temporary station master offices will be set up at both Beemapally and Vettucaud to coordinate bus operations during the festivities, the minister said.John directed KSEB officials to replace damaged streetlights and PWD officials to complete road repair works on an urgent basis. Arrangements will also be made to ensure drinking water supply, waste management and septic tank cleaning at the two pilgrimage centres.Rest facilities will be arranged for tourists visiting both destinations. Police aid posts will be set up, while volunteers will provide round-the-clock assistance during the celebrations. The minister also directed the authorities to conduct awareness campaigns through announcements at the places of worship, urging those taking part in motorcycle rallies to wear helmets.A health department control room will also function during the events. Representatives of Vettucaud Church requested permission for an aircraft to shower flowers as part of the church feast celebrations. The minister said the request would be considered. He also directed officials to explore additional parking facilities by seeking the consent of residents in nearby houses, in addition to parking arrangements made by the police.Mayor V V Rajesh, councillor Kinsey, Vettucaud Church parish priest Fr Shaju William, representatives of the Beemapally administrative committee and officials of various departments attended the meeting.
