RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM

The Rajamahendravaram Municipal Corporation (RMC) plans to set up 3,000 safe drinking water kiosks and 32,000 drinking water tap outlets to ensure safe drinking water for devotees during the Godavari Pushkarams in 2027 in Rajamahendravaram city. An estimated 80 lakh devotees are expected to take a holy dip every day in the Godavari in the city during the initial days of the Pushkarams.

On Thursday (October 22, 2026), Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) Chairman R. Krishnaiah reviewed the preparedness of the East Godavari district authorities and the RMC to ensure drinking water for the devotees during the Pushkarams.

RMC Commissioner Rahul Meena said the drinking water plan aimed at providing three litres of water per person through various means, including tap outlets and water kiosks, which would be filled round the clock. The devotees will have access to drinking water within half a kilometre along the banks of the Godavari and at locations near the ghats. Pushkar nagars, railway stations, bus stations, parking places and walking paths will also be equipped with water kiosks, Mr. Meena said.

No plastic

On avoiding plastic for food and drinking water, East Godavari District Collector Ch. Kirthi said alternatives to plastic plates and water bottles would be explored for the Pushkarams. Mr. Krishnaiah suggested allowing devotees to refill their water bottles to reduce dependence on plastic water bottles.

Mr. Krishnaiah asked Mr. Meena and Ms. Kirthi to finalise the action plan and preparedness measures for safe drinking water for the devotees by the end of October.