Karaga 2026 preparations begin: Central City Civic Chief inspects Dharmarayaswamy Temple, orders road & clean-up drive

Ahead of the historic Karaga Shaktyotsava on April 1 and flag hoisting on March 24, Commissioner Rajendra Cholan reviews route, sanitation and infrastructure readiness.

With the historic Karaga scheduled for April 1 and the ceremonial flag hoisting fixed for March 24, preparations have gathered pace in the heart of Bengaluru. Central City Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Cholan conducted a detailed inspection of key locations linked to the festival.

The inspection covered the revered Dharmarayaswamy Temple and surrounding areas. The Commissioner held discussions with the temple administrative board and concerned municipal officials to review on-ground arrangements.

During the visit, officials assessed the condition of roads along the Karaga procession route. Instructions were issued to immediately repair damaged stretches, close potholes and fix manholes of underground drainage systems. Maintaining hygiene across the festival zone was given top priority, with directions for continuous waste clearance, removal of garbage black spots and regular monitoring.

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The Commissioner also ordered the removal of abandoned vehicles parked along roadside stretches and the clearance of construction debris that could obstruct the procession. BESCOM was directed to remove unused electric poles and ensure proper electrical arrangements.

Special emphasis was laid on decorative lighting at the temple premises and along the procession route. Officials were asked to enhance street illumination in and around the festival areas to ensure safety and smooth movement of devotees.

Senior officials present during the inspection included Development Additional Commissioner Daljit Kumar, Joint Commissioner Hemanth Sharan, Chief Engineer Vijay Kumar Haridas, Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers of Chikkapete and Gandhinagar zones, and members of the Dharmarayaswamy Temple administrative board.

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With thousands of devotees expected to participate, civic authorities have begun coordinated efforts to ensure that infrastructure, sanitation, safety and lighting arrangements are completed well before the festival dates.