Chamarajanagar Deputy Commissioner Shreeroopa checked the arrangements for the five-day Shivarathri Jatra at Male Mahadeshwara Hills on February 7, 2026. The festival is set from February 14 to 18, drawing many devotees from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu via a padayatra. She visited Basavanakadu to oversee Cauvery river crossing safety. Superintendent of Police M. Muthuraj and other officials also inspected preparations, focusing on the traditional pilgrimage route. Pilgrims will travel through Kanakapura, Ramanagara, Channapatna, and Magadi, cross the Cauvery river at Sangama, and pass forest areas before reaching the temple in Hanur. With the KRS reservoir water release reduced, officials ordered extra personnel at the river crossing to protect pilgrims. The Forest Department will add patrol teams in forest parts. Travelers were advised to move only during daylight. Medical teams and emergency centers will be set up along the way. State Disaster Response Force and Fire Services will also be on standby. Deputy Commissioner Shreeroopa said, “pilgrim turnout could exceed expectations” but assured “all safety measures would be taken without disturbing traditional practices.” She urged pilgrims to cooperate with authorities. Gram Panchayats have been instructed to ensure drinking water, lighting, and basic facilities. Kollegal Assistant Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Meena, Deputy Conservator of Forests Bhaskar, and other department officials joined the inspection.