Mysuru aglow as Dasara illumination lights up city

Mysuru came alive in a dazzling display of lights on Sunday evening as the citywide Dasara illumination was switched on, setting the tone for the 11-day ‘Nada Habba’ celebrations.

Energy Minister K.J. George inaugurated the illumination at the green pavilion on Sayyaji Rao Road, marking the beginning of 21 days of decorative lighting across the city.

Organised by the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC), this year’s illumination covers 146 km of roads, 123 traffic circles and 80 illuminated installations, besides decorative arches and multicoloured lighting. The lights will remain on daily from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. until October 31.

The installations showcase State’s heritage, culture and development while highlighting major government programmes. Displays depicting schemes such as Gruha Jyothi, Yuva Nidhi, Shakti and Gruha Lakshmi, along with Bharat Jodo, are among the attractions.

Major roads around Mysuru Palace, Sayyaji Rao Road, Irwin Road, Albert Victor Road, JLB Road and Chamaraja Double Road have been illuminated. Key traffic circles, including Dodda Kere Maidan, Chamaraja Circle, Jayachamaraja Circle, K.R. Circle and Ramaswamy Circle, have also been decorated. The railway station, Gun House and LIC Circle are among the other prominent locations covered by the illumination, which has been extended to important roads on the city’s outskirts.

Mr. George said this year’s illumination would be more attractive than last year’s and help draw more tourists to Mysuru. CESC had taken precautionary measures to ensure public safety, he added.

MLA and CESC Chairman Ramesh Bandisiddegowda was present.

CESC has urged the public not to touch illumination poles or stand too close to them while taking photographs and videos. People have also been advised to keep away from electrical installations during rain. Motorists have been asked to exercise caution while driving along roads where illumination poles have been installed, CESC said in a press release.

The public can call the 24-hour helpline 1912 to report complaints or problems related to the illumination.

MLA Tanveer Sait, Energy Department additional chief secretary Gaurav Gupta, KPTCL managing director and Tourism Department secretary V. Ram Prasath Manohar, CESC managing director M.S. Archana, and other officials were present.