Aluva Manapuram is all set to welcome devotees for Sivaratri celebrations. Manappuram and nearby areas will be under drone surveillance. | Photo credit: H. VIBHU
The Ernakulam Rural Police have beefed up security in view of the heavy rush expected at the Sivaratri celebrations at the Aluva Mahadeva Temple on the banks of the Periyar. Though Sivaratri is on Sunday (February 15, 2026), the rush for ‘Bali Tharpanam’ at the river ghat is expected for three days.
The police and the Fire and Rescue Service will conduct intensive patrols. A special team was created to monitor recidivists. A special police team will be deployed to control the rush at Aluva railway station, the police said in a statement.
Manappuram and nearby areas will be under drone surveillance. CCTVs have been installed at major junctions and busy areas. In addition, police officers will be stationed in watchtowers.
Rescue services were organized to deal with emergency situations.
Police have imposed traffic regulations in Aluva town and adjoining areas from 4 pm on Sunday to 2 pm on Monday (February 16, 2026) in view of the celebrations.
All vehicles including KSRTC buses going towards River Ghat must divert from Seminarypada and proceed to the main venue via GCDA road in front of Ayurveda Hospital.
Vehicles leaving the River Ghat have to reach Paravur Kavala Junction via Old Desom Road. No traffic will be allowed from Thottakkattukara to Manappuram. No vehicular movement will be allowed between Bank Junction and Mahatma Gandhi Town Hall from Sunday 8:00 PM to Monday 2:00 PM.
The police have secured a parking lot for the devotees attending the festival. People have been urged to use the facilities and warned that strict action will be taken against illegal parking.
Published – 14 Feb 2026 20:01 IST