VMC is setting up a special drainage system for Saras Aajeevika Mela to ensure cleanliness at Punnami Ghat

Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Pemmasani Chandrasekhar and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath inspected the arrangements for the National Saras Aajeevika Mela at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada on Saturday. | Photo credit: GN RAO

The Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) has arranged a special drainage system at Punnami Ghat, where the Saras Aajeevika Mela will be held from October 13, to ensure smooth disposal of sewage and prevent its stagnation.

Municipal Commissioner Dhyanachandra HM said the measures are being taken in view of the large influx of vendors from across the country who are expected to set up their stalls here. The VMC commissioner also directed the authorities to provide underground drainage facilities where necessary and ensure cleanliness is maintained throughout the event. President Droupadi Murmu is also expected to attend the mela.

Earlier in the day, Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications and Guntur MP Pemmasani Chandrasekhar and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) inspected the arrangements for the event at Punnami Ghat.

Later, speaking to the media, Mr. Sivanath said that the event was held in Guntur last year and was a great success. Efforts are being made to organize an event in Vijayawada in a similar vein, he said, adding that the primary objective was to promote women-made products and create opportunities for them to access national markets, thereby strengthening their economic independence.

Mr. Sivanath urged women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) to join in large numbers and take advantage of the opportunity. He said the mela will provide a valuable marketing platform for handicrafts, traditional products and other household items made by women.

Vijayawada Police Commissioner SV Rajasekhar Babu, Mr. Dhyanachandra and other District and Corporation officials participated in the programme.

Published – 10 Oct 2026 20:25 IST