RANCHI, July 18, 2013: With less than a week remaining for the Hindu holy month of Shravan to begin, preparations for welcoming devotees at Pahari Mandir have started already. Cleanliness work in and around the temple is almost complete and painting work on the temple premises is in process.

Keeping in mind safety of people, the temple authorities have planned to lay a carpet at the stairs leading to the temple. Deputy commissioner (DC) of the city and chairperson of Pahari Mandir Puja Samiti Vinay Chaubey said, "During the month of Shravan, thousands of devotees throng the temple to offer water to Lord Shiva. As a result, a lot of water spills on the stairs making it slippery. We are laying a carpet to prevent people from slipping and injuring themselves."

To improve visibility for devotees, 16 vapour lamps will also be installed on the temple premises. Chaubey said, "The installation of cables for the vapour lights is underway. The lights will be installed soon which will help devotees in offering prayers during evenings without any difficulty."

CCTV cameras which were installed on the premises last year are being checked for defects or faults. "The CCTV cameras will help us in surveying the security measures in the temple," the DC added.

Apart from these, speakers are being installed at the various corners of the temple to play devotional songs and LCD screens are being set up to telecast the puja which will take place inside the sanctum sanctorum. Water filters and water coolers inside the temple are also being repaired.

Chaubey said, "Proper security will be ensured on the premises. Separate rows will be made for men and women for the convenience of the devotees. A medical camp will also be established at the temple for medical emergencies."

Source: The Times of India, DT. July 18, 2013.