Dasara preparations amidst drought, poll

Amidst the gram panchayat election, registration of voters, drought and other busy works in which the officials are engaged, preparations are on for the state-sponsored Dasara celebrations that is set to commence on October 16 in Mysore, city deputy commissioner P S Vastrad said.

While final touches are being made, some programmes have commenced like the mass bhajan mela by women participants, Dasara sports and cleaning drive.

After inspecting the works for holding the Dasara wrestling in the Doddakere grounds, he said the Dasara sports torch had left Chamundi Hills this morning and the sports competitions commenced later in the day.

Enthusiasts interested in seeing Mysore from the sky can do so by taking an aerial joy ride on payment of Rs 2,500 per head. Work on illuminating the city was in progress, he said, claiming this year too more tourists would visit Mysore to witness the celebrations. A host of important dignitaries have been personally invited.

Repair of major roads have been completed and steps are being taken to erect posters and banners highlighting various programmes to be organised by several sub-committees.