Visakhapatnam District Collector Abhishikt Kishore inspected the 32-km Giri Pradakshina route ahead of the annual Simhachalam pilgrimage.

Officials reviewed arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, medical aid, traffic management, and crowd control.

The administration aims to ensure a safe and smooth experience for the lakhs of devotees expected to participate.

Visakhapatnam District Collector M. Abhishikt Kishore conducted an inspection of the 32-km Giri Pradakshina route in preparation for the annual pilgrimage around the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Simhachalam. Senior officials from the police, GVMC, and various government departments accompanied the Collector to review arrangements for the event, which is expected to attract lakhs of devotees.

During the inspection, officials assessed the availability of drinking water, sanitation facilities, bio-toilets, medical camps, ambulances, street lighting, rest areas, and public announcement systems along the trekking route. The Collector directed all departments to ensure that essential services are in place well before the commencement of the pilgrimage.

Special emphasis was placed on traffic regulation, crowd management, parking facilities, route signage, and emergency response mechanisms. Authorities also reviewed arrangements for temporary control rooms, assistance centres, and coordination between departments to ensure the smooth movement of devotees throughout the pilgrimage.

The annual Simhachalam Giri Pradakshina, scheduled for July 28–29, is one of Andhra Pradesh's largest religious events. Officials stated that comprehensive planning and inter-departmental coordination are expected to ensure the safety, comfort, and convenience of pilgrims participating in the sacred 32-kilometre walk.