Sat Nov 22 23:46:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

Headline: Devotees Barred from Climbing Arunachala Hills for Maha Deepam Due to Safety Concerns

TIRUVANNAMALAI, November 23, 2025 – For the second consecutive year, devotees will be prohibited from climbing the Arunachala Hills near the Arunachaleswara temple in Tiruvannamalai for the Maha Deepam festival, scheduled for December 3, 2025. Revenue and forest officials cited ongoing safety concerns related to unstable soil and potential landslides due to the approaching Northeast monsoon season.

The decision follows a 2024 landslip triggered by Cyclone Fengal that resulted in fatalities, prompting a government-led expert team to assess the hill’s condition. Their report highlighted the continued instability of the terrain. Recent actions, including the demolition of a large boulder deemed a safety risk, underscore the precariousness of the hills. Approximately 143 families living at the foothills have received eviction notices for their safety.

While public access is restricted, a group of local fishermen, who traditionally light the lamp (“Kopparai”) atop the hills as part of the Karthigai Deepam festivities, will be permitted to ascend via their traditional route. They will carry the necessary materials, including 750kg of ghee and 300 meters of cotton cloth, to perform the ritual. Strict security will be in place to ensure only those with special passes issued by the Collector will be allowed to climb. Previously, the district administration allowed around 2,500 people to ascend the hill.

The ban aims to prevent further soil loosening and ensure the safety of the general public during the festival.

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