Kochi: With Periyar River in spate, district authorities in Ernakulam are taking all steps for the event-free conduct of the annual Karkkidaka Vavu Bali on Saturday. On the day, people pay obeisance to ancestors at the lord Shiva shrine in Aluva.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed at Aluva to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. The police and the fire service personnel have also been roped in to provide security.

Three boats, 20 lifeboats, 40 life-jackets, special ropes and diving teams have been kept on high alert to meet any eventuality, the authorities said.

Thousands throng the ancient temple to perform the Vavu Bali. Karikkidakam is the last month of the Malayalam calendar which falls in July-August. The month has religious significance for Hindus as they visit the Shiva temple on Amavasi or no moon day.

The temple was submerged since gushing water from the Idukki and Idamalayar dams reached Aluva following the opening of shutters of dams.

Officials said the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the shrine, was making arrangements in unaffected areas on the banks of the Periyar.

State Revenue minister E Chandrasekharan, who held a meeting of legislators and officials, reviewed the situation in the affected areas along the river.