Helicopter services at Medaram Samakka Sarakka Jatara

Medaram, Jan 31: The Telangana famous tribal festival Medaram Samakka Sarakka Jatara is begun today.

In the olden days, the only way to reach Medaram to attend the jatara was through bullock carts. Now, better infrastructure has enabled devotees reach the venue in four-wheelers or even by a chopper!

With the State government laying roads and making other arrangements decades ago, the number of devotees taking part in the jatara has almost reached a crore. While many from distant villages walk in the woods to get to Medaram, others reach here on bullock carts spending days on road.

Several others from Khammam, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra crossover Godavari to reach the venue. With the changing times, the modes of transport have also evolved what with a private agency offering helicopter rides since 2010 from Mamnoor in Warangal to Medaram.

Now, the district administration has built a helipad just behind the altar that can accommodate two helicopters. Those wishing to go on a helicopter ride may register their names on www.telanganatourism.gov.in