Safety concerns have mounted at several ghats across Andhra Pradesh as devotees thronged rivers and water bodies to offer prayers during Maha Shivaratri, with authorities warning that ill-equipped facilities are putting worshippers at risk. Reports of overcrowding, inadequate safety measures, and poorly managed crowd control have raised alarm among local officials and devotees alike.

The celebrations, which attract thousands of pilgrims every year, saw significant footfall at key ghats despite warnings about slippery steps, uneven pathways, and lack of proper lighting. Local administrations admitted that several sites are not fully equipped to handle large crowds, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Rescue and emergency services were deployed at major riverbanks to assist devotees in distress. Officials said temporary barricades, life-saving equipment, and medical teams were stationed at critical points, but gaps in infrastructure posed challenges in managing the surge of worshippers effectively.

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Devotees expressed concern over safety, urging authorities to improve ghats’ maintenance and ensure stricter monitoring during festivals. Some recounted near-miss incidents due to overcrowding and poorly marked hazardous areas, highlighting the urgent need for better preventive measures.

Authorities have acknowledged the shortcomings and said they would conduct audits of ghat facilities to identify risks and implement improvements ahead of future festivals. Police and disaster management teams have been directed to coordinate with local volunteers to manage crowds and prevent untoward incidents.

Safety experts and religious organisations emphasised the importance of combining infrastructural upgrades with public awareness campaigns. They noted that ensuring proper lighting, railings, and emergency preparedness can significantly reduce accidents and allow devotees to celebrate Maha Shivaratri safely.

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