In the wake of the recent Bengaluru stampede, Karnataka police are intensifying efforts to ensure the safety of devotees, tourists, and spectators during the Mysuru Dasara procession. This grand event, which draws lakhs of visitors annually, follows a 5-km route from Mysuru Palace to Banni Mantap.
Despite its popularity, the procession route still lacks a dedicated development plan. Officials and tourism stakeholders have urged the government to upgrade it into a model road with better infrastructure and safety measures. Historian NS Rangaraj stressed that recent incidents, such as the Puri Rath Yatra stampede, highlight the urgent need for proactive planning and crowd monitoring.
Commissioner of Police Seema Latkar confirmed that police have recommended reducing the number of tickets issued to watch the procession. Currently, around 54,000 tickets are released each year, creating major challenges in crowd movement and safety. The police have proposed capping the number at 20,000. District Minister HC Mahadevappa has responded positively to this suggestion.
Additional holding areas and improved barricading will be created to manage the crowds effectively. Tourism stakeholder BS Prashanth also proposed replacing plastic chairs with moulded sports seats and focusing on crowd-heavy spots like Chamarajendra Wadiyar Circle and Visvesvaraya Circle.
A comprehensive development plan prioritizing safety, heritage conservation, and infrastructure is now seen as crucial. Authorities emphasized that neglecting these measures could undermine not only public safety but also respect for Karnataka’s rich cultural legacy.