Kerala, Kodagu disaster will not hold back tourists from Dasara, says Mysuru DC

As Dasara special officer, deputy commissioner Abhiram G Sankar has his hands full, coordinating between the district administration, police and other departments and elected representatives to pull off the celebrations. There are many lessons to learn, he tells Akshatha J, adding that the devastation in Kerala and Kodagu are not expected to hold back tourists.
What is new about Dasara 2018?
Alongside the pre-Dasara kite festival, vintage car rally and triathlon, we will organise an ornamental fish display as part of the aqua fest. For the first time, hobli-level Dasara festivities will be conducted. The biggest initiative this year is the cultural procession on October 14. Barring the tableaux and the golden howdah, all other elements of the Dasara procession will be part of this event for those who might not be able to make it for Vijaya Dashami. Cultural troupes will perform alongside elephants carrying a decorated wooden howdah.
What are the challenges you face?
People do learn a lot during the Dasara season. We have finite resources and infinite demands and we have to work to fulfil them. Apart from that, we have to work with elected representatives, NGOs and other organisations.
Do you think Dasara can be marketed better?
Marketing of Dasara this season is happening really well. Even back home in Kerala, many people said they had seen advertisements on Dasara in newspapers and magazines. I have got calls from relatives and family members about these ads. I think the only thing that needs to be done is to sustain the momentum. Not just marketing of Dasara, but also of Mysuru and the region. People should come to the city throughout year and not just for one festival.
What measures are in place for crowd control and safety management?
Vehicle parking is one of our major concerns. We are chalking out plans to come up with parking space around the Mysuru Palace. It’s a relief that the parking lot in Town Hall premises will be open during the festival. On the day of procession, we are expecting around 30,000 spectators inside palace premises. So streamlining the crowd, barricading across counters will be ensured. Along with the police, department of tourism and Mysuru Palace Board, we will ensure that there is no spillover of audience from one block to another.
Will the Kerala and Kodagu floods impact tourist presence?
The Kerala and Kodagu flood and landslides have not made a huge impact on the tourism industry in the city. There is no fall in the rate of tourists coming to Mysuru.
- (By Akshatha J)