Chief Minister directs officials to make Mysuru flex-free during Dasara

Title Chief Minister directs officials to make Mysuru flex‑free during Dasara Paragraph 1 The Karnataka State Assembly convened on Tuesday, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah delivering a brief but forceful address on the impending Dasara celebrations in Mysuru. He urged all municipal and police units to adopt a “flex‑free” policy, allowing the city to operate on an informal schedule that accommodates the influx of devotees and tourists. The minister added that the state would provide extra funding to ensure smooth traffic flow and emergency services, emphasizing that the festival’s economic benefits outweigh the temporary logistical challenges..

Paragraph 2 “Dasara is not just a cultural event; it is a massive economic engine for Mysuru,” Siddaramaiah said, pointing to the projected 15‑million rupee boost in local commerce. He cited a 2023 study by the Mysuru Development Authority which linked the festival to increased sales for artisans, food vendors, and hotels. The chief minister’s directive includes a “flex‑free” timetable that permits traffic signals and public transport to adjust routes on demand, minimizing congestion in historic precincts..

Paragraph 3 The minister announced that the Karnataka Police Department will deploy an additional 200 officers in the city, supplemented by a 48‑hour on‑call shift system. “We are creating a 24‑hour response window for any emergencies,” he said. The plan also incorporates a mobile command center, staffed by both police and medical teams, to handle incidents at the bustling Karanji Lake and the iconic Chamundi Hills foot traffic corridors..

The Chief Minister urged all departments to coordinate through a central command hub. Paragraph 4 In a parallel move, the Ministry of Tourism has already secured visas for 25 ambassadors from countries including China, the United States, Italy, and Singapore. These dignitaries will attend the inaugural Dasara parade, an event that has historically attracted international media attention..

“The presence of foreign ambassadors elevates Mysuru’s status on the world stage,” said Tourism Minister Manjunath. “We are working to provide them with an immersive cultural experience that showcases our heritage.” Paragraph 5 The ambassadors will arrive on a dedicated “Ambassadorial Corridor,” a 3‑kilometre stretch of traffic‑free road connecting the Mysuru International Airport to the palace grounds. This corridor, the minister said, will be monitored by both security and medical teams to ensure a smooth journey..

The initiative is part of a larger push to position Mysuru as a premier destination for cultural diplomacy, according to the Chief Minister’s office. Paragraph 6 Alongside the diplomatic entourage, the Chief Minister announced that several prominent religious heads would preside over the opening ceremony. The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Trust will host a joint prayer session with leaders from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Jain communities..

“Unity in diversity is the cornerstone of this festival,” remarked Siddaramaiah, noting that the religious leaders will be invited to speak at the 7:00 pm opening event, which will be broadcast live across Karnataka. Paragraph 7 The state health department is coordinating with local hospitals to establish temporary medical tents at the main parade route. “We have set up triage points equipped with basic emergency care,” the health spokesperson explained..

The tents will provide first‑aid and oxygen supplies, with a rapid referral system in place for any serious injuries. The chief minister also mandated that all food vendors on the route must undergo health inspections, ensuring adherence to hygiene protocols. Paragraph 8 Traffic management will be overseen by a new “Dasara Traffic Control Board” that includes representatives from the Karnataka Highways Department, Mysuru Municipal Corporation, and local NGOs..

The board will use real‑time data analytics to reroute vehicles away from congested zones. “We aim for zero traffic bottlenecks,” said the board’s chair, who highlighted that the board’s decisions will be broadcast through local radio and a dedicated mobile app. The app will inform commuters of alternate routes and expected travel times..

Paragraph 9 The municipal corporation has pledged to deploy additional waste management crews during the festival, targeting a 30 % reduction in litter. “We will set up more trash bins in high‑traffic areas and conduct a public awareness campaign on the importance of keeping the streets clean,” the mayor said. The campaign will run for two weeks prior to the festival, with volunteers from local schools and colleges assisting in distributing flyers and conducting street clean‑ups..

The aim is to preserve Mysuru’s pristine image for visitors. Paragraph 10 Security measures will be heightened with a coordinated effort between the Karnataka State Police, the National Security Guard, and local paramilitary units. “Our priority is the safety of the public and the dignitaries,” the police chief announced..

He added that a 24‑hour surveillance grid, using drones and CCTV cameras, will monitor key locations such as the Mysuru Palace, Chamundi Hill, and the main parade route. Any suspicious activity will be reported to the central command hub for immediate action. Paragraph 11 The Chief Minister’s office has also opened a special “Festival Support Fund,” drawing resources from both state and central budgets..

The fund will cover contingency expenses for the festival, including emergency medical supplies, additional public transport, and security enhancements. “We want to ensure that no part of the event is left underfunded,” Siddaramaiah said. The fund will be audited monthly, with reports made public to maintain transparency and accountability..

Paragraph 12 As the city prepares for the grand spectacle, local residents and business owners have expressed mixed feelings..