Godavari Puskarams in a Memorable Way

Hyderabad, March 10 (INN): With four months left for Godavari Pushkarams, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu held a review meeting on the preparedness of the state government for the major event.

Stating that the government has so far sanctioned Rs 1,160 crore for the works, the Chief Minister said that every penny has to be accounted for and that quality has to be maintained. He added that the officials hire a third party agency for regular inspections.

The Chief Minister suggested officials to have a 90-day countdown and have a blueprint for it. He added that officials should submit a daily report once the event begins.

'This event should turn out to be one of the best events organized by the government,' the Chief Minister said, directing officials to appoint an event manager to organize and manage the event.

The Chief Minister also launched a website on Godavari Pushakarams ( http://www.godavarimahapushkaram2015.org ) that will give updates on the day-today happenings, event arrangements, etc to people.

Endownments Department officials informed the Chief Minister that the state government has written to the Government of India for funds worth Rs800 crore for the event. The state government has also invited the President and Prime Minister for the event.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister was informed that IL&FS is preparing a DPR on Godavari Puskarams.

Within 15 days, the Chief Minister said that the government should finalize the logo by holding a competition among branding agencies.

The Chief Minister has also asked officials to create the theme of the event in a way marine industry and aquaculture is part of AP's culture.

The state government is also exploring ways to integrate rural sports as part of this event, For this, the government has zeroed in on 22 venues.

The Chief Minister suggested that Kuchipudi and other local arts could be highlighted and be made part of the event. For all the works under various departments, the Chief Minister gave 15 days time for completion.

He directed officials and the Chief Secretary to follow-up on the 13th Finance Commission funds that the state ought to receive.

The Chief Minister added that the government should also erect make-shift rain-proof shelters that will protect people. Officials informed the Chief Minister that all the municipalities in East and West Godavari districts will be replaced by LED bulbs.

Meanwhile, for emergency situations, motor boats, life-saving equipment have been kept in place, the Chief Minister was informed, saying 400 people are being trained for rescue operations.

Meanwhile, 1,500 buses will ferry people to Rajahmundry while the APSRTC is planning to have 100 buses transport people within Rajahmundry city.

Heads of all related departments were present at the meeting.