Tue Sep 23 11:10:29 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Kurnool district administration in Andhra Pradesh, India, is preparing for the annual “karrela samaram” (stick fight) known as the Banni festival, scheduled for Dasara day (October 2nd). The administration and police are taking extensive measures to ensure a peaceful event, including installing 200 CCTV cameras, deploying 10 drones, restricting liquor, and providing medical facilities. Meetings have been held with villagers to encourage peaceful participation, and infrastructure improvements are underway to facilitate access to the festival site. The police will erect barricades and seize sticks carrying metal rings before the event.
**News Article:**
**Kurnool Gears Up for Banni Festival with Heavy Security Measures**
**KURNOOL, September 23, 2025** – The Kurnool district administration is implementing stringent security measures ahead of the annual “karrela samaram,” or Banni festival, scheduled for October 2nd in Devaragattu. The traditional event, known for its sometimes violent clashes between villagers vying for possession of deities, will be under close surveillance to ensure a peaceful celebration.
District Collector A. Siri and Superintendent of Police Vikrant Patil have held meetings with representatives from Neraniki, Neraniki Tanda, Kothapet, and Devaragattu, urging them to conduct the festival with restraint.
“Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants,” stated Collector Siri. “We are providing all necessary facilities and security measures to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable festival.”
Key security measures include the installation of 200 CCTV cameras across the festival grounds and surrounding areas. Additionally, 10 drones will provide aerial surveillance. Police will erect barricades and seize potentially dangerous sticks with metal rings before the festival commences. Efforts are also underway to curb the sale and consumption of liquor during the event.
To address potential injuries, a temporary 20-bed hospital will be set up with adequate medical staff, and four Advance Life Support ambulances will be stationed nearby.
The administration is also focusing on improving infrastructure, with the Panchayat Raj and Roads and Buildings departments tasked with repairing roads leading to Neraniki and Devaragattu. Uninterrupted power supply and sanitation facilities will also be ensured.
“We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for the Banni festival,” stated Superintendent of Police Patil. “We urge all participants to cooperate with the authorities and celebrate responsibly.”
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