K'taka: Arrangements for Hampi Utsav in top gear

Bellary, Oct 6: Preparations for the Hampi Utsav-2006, a three-day cultural bonanza beginning from November three at the historic Hampi ruins, has gained momentum with a preliminary preparatory meeting held by Deputy Commissioner Arvind Srivastav with senior officers concerned in Hampi.

Mr Srivastav told reporters yesterday that the major focus this year would be on transportation system. Efforts were on to introduce electric mini buses to take visitors from monument to monument during the Utsav days. Talks were on with a private transport company in this regard. If it became a reality, this would be the first time in the country that an electric transport network was being introduced at a tourist spot like Hampi, where the plying distance would be around 25 sqkm.

He said more thrust would be given to arranging basic facilities for both local and outstation artistes this year. The facilities for participating artistes would be gradually improved with every passing year. The Zilla Panchayat would look after provision of basic facilities like drinking water and toilets. Twelve sub-committees have been constituted under the Kannada and Culture department to ensure the smooth conduct of the Utsav.

The next preparatory meeting would be presided over by district incharge and Home Minister M P Prakash after October ten.

UNI