Udupi: In the wake of the deadly coronavirus (covid-19) scare and ‘state health emergency’ being declared by the Karnataka Government, the district administration has decided to shut down all the tourists and pilgrimage destinations and keep a strict vigil.
Kudlu Falls, which attracts thousands of tourists every year, has been temporarily closed with hoardings being placed at the spot. Similarly, Kollur Mookambika Temple, which observes lakhs of visitors annually, has also brought in some restrictions. As the temple is celebrating Car Festival (rathotsav), the district administration has decided to organize it in a simple manner. Reports suggest that certain changes in the age-old rituals were implemented by the temple administration, as per the instructions of the district administration.
The chariot was pulled for just 10 meters and was pulled back till the temple doors, as per the traditions.
The district administration has taken these steps in accordance with the recommendations of the government, so as to avoid a mass gathering and to prevent the spread of the deadly viral infection.
