Madurai (Tamil Nadu) | The consecration of the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple is scheduled for September 17, with comprehensive arrangements underway to manage the expected arrival of lakhs of devotees, Tamil Nadu Minister R Nirmal Kumar said on Saturday.

He said Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay was unlikely to participate in the consecration.

"No decision has been taken regarding that so far. But it is unlikely, as there are other events scheduled around that time. Also, in a place where crowds are already heavy, the CM's visit will further increase the crowd," he said.

The minister for Energy Resources, Electricity, and Law was addressing a press conference here after an inter-departmental review meeting.

The meeting, which brought together officials from the district administration, city corporation, police department, electricity board and the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department, focused on crowd management, security measures and basic civic amenities.

According to the minister, current plans envisage allowing 8,000 to 10,000 people onto the temple terrace during the rituals, while detailed zoning of surrounding streets and exit routes is being finalised.

To streamline entry, holographic entry passes with QR codes will be issued to devotees, and the full schedule will be made public within a week, he added.

"Arrangements are being made to provide temporary toilets, drinking water facilities and extensive CCTV surveillance. Parking arrangements to accommodate at least 8,000 vehicles are also being made," he said, adding that multiple LED screens would be put up at key public locations for devotees unable to enter the main complex.

Structural stability audits of surrounding residential buildings are also being undertaken to ensure people do not gather on rooftops.

A designated section for around 200 to 300 dignitaries, including High Court judges, district collectors and temple administrators, will be accommodated alongside other permitted visitors.