Rlys plan additional train services for Mahamastakabhisheka

In view of the expected huge turnout at Shravanabelagola for Mahamastakabhisheka, the head anointing ceremony of Lord Gommateswara, next year, South Western Railway plans to run additional trains to the temple town from Bengaluru/Hassan.
Celebrated once in 12 years, Mahamastakabhisheka is a grand ceremony where the statue is anointed with water, turmeric and sandalwood paste.
The event will takeplace from February 7 to Februay 26 2018.
A large numberof Jains from different parts of the country pour in to worship their Teerthankar.
To ensure necessary passenger amenities, SWR General Manager A K Gupta inspected Hassan andShravanabelagola railway stations.
South Western Railways said in a press releasethat it planned 12 additional services fromBengaluru/Hassan to Shravanabelagola during the celebrations.

It said that the frequency and number of services would beannounced in due course.

Adequate additional temporary booking counters anda temporary passenger reservation system will be opened at atShravanabelagola.
Temporary structures for waiting hall,toilets, acontrol room and a helpdesk will also be set up at thesestations. Besides, additional stalls for food and beverages and backup generators will also be set up.
In the coming months, CCTVs will be installedand High speed Wi-Fi network provided at Hassan andShravanabelagola stations.
Tight security atthese stations, first aid services and cleaning drinking water supply are also on the cards.
Gupta was quoted as saying that all out effortsare being made by SWR to organize Railways partof the prestigious event successfully.