NewKerala.com

Madurai Jallikattu: High-Level Medical Team Deployed for Bull Tamer Safety

Authorities in Madurai have implemented extensive safety measures for the Alanganallur Jallikattu, including health checks for bulls by 25 Animal Husbandry doctors. A high-level medical team of 11 specialists is on standby to provide immediate assistance to any injured bull tamers. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is scheduled to visit the event, prompting a complete ban on drone operations in the district for security. The traditional sport, held during Pongal, involves participants attempting to tame a bull to win coins tied to its horns.

Key Points: Jallikattu Safety: Medical Team, Bull Checks in Madurai

  • 25 vets checking bulls
  • 11-specialist medical team on standby
  • CM MK Stalin to attend event
  • Drone ban for security
  • SOPs in place for safety
3 min read

High-level medical team in place for safe Jallikattu in Madurai: District Collector

Madurai ensures safe Jallikattu with 25 vets checking bulls and an 11-specialist medical team on standby. CM Stalin to attend.

"We have constituted a high-level team comprising 11 specialists... to expedite immediate medical assistance. - Praveen Kumar"

Madurai, January 17

Preparations for the traditional Jallikattu event at Alanganallur in Madurai district are in full swing, with authorities ensuring comprehensive safety measures for both participants and bulls. Animal health checks, medical facilities, and security arrangements have been put in place ahead of the main event.

Speaking to ANI, Praveen Kumar, District Collector of Madurai, said, "On behalf of the Tamil Nadu government, the Commercial Tax and Registration Minister has just flagged off the event. We have given the maximum number of bulls and bull tamers the opportunity to participate in this major event. All safety measures have already been established. Around 25 Animal Husbandry doctors have already started examining the bulls."

He added that in case any bull tamers sustain injuries, a high-level team of 11 specialists from Madurai Medical College Hospital has been constituted to provide immediate medical assistance.

"For bull tamers, if there are any injuries, to expedite immediate medical assistance, we have constituted a high-level team comprising 11 specialists from Madurai Medical College Hospital. So all standard operating procedures are in place. We are looking forward to an entertaining and safe Jallikattu. No major casualties or any severe injuries have been reported," Madurai District Collector added.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is scheduled to visit Madurai on Saturday to attend the world-famous Jallikattu event at Alanganallur. The Chief Minister will arrive at Madurai Airport by flight and is expected to attend the event before departing later the same day, an official release said.

In view of the Chief Minister's visit and associated security concerns, authorities have imposed a complete ban on the operation of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) today. The prohibition applies to Madurai Airport, its surrounding areas, travel routes and the district limits.

Officials have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found violating the drone ban, a release added.

Jallikattu, also known as sallikkattu, is a traditional sport of Tamil Nadu celebrated on the third day of Pongal (Mattu Pongal).

The name is coined from two words, Jalli (silver and gold coins) and Kattu (tied). A bull is let loose among a crowd of people, and whoever tames it will get the coins tied to its horn.

The people who participate in the sport try to hold on to the animal's hump to stop it. Sometimes, they run along with the bull. Pulikulam or Kangayam is the breed of bulls used for the sport. The bulls which win in the festival are in high demand in the market and fetch the highest price.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
While I appreciate the safety measures for humans, I hope the 25 vets are also ensuring the bulls are not mistreated or provoked unnecessarily. The tradition is about the spirit of the sport, not causing harm to the animals. Their welfare is equally important.
S
Sarah B
As someone from outside Tamil Nadu, it's fascinating to read about this tradition. The level of organization is impressive – from animal health checks to specialist medical teams. The drone ban for the CM's visit shows how seriously they're taking security. Hope the event goes smoothly!
K
Karthik V
CM Stalin attending is a big deal. Shows the government's support for Tamil culture. The preparations seem thorough. Let's hope there are zero casualties this year – for both tamers and bulls. That's the real success metric. Alanganallur Jallikattu is world famous for a reason!
A
Aman W
Respectfully, I have to ask: is all this expense and high-level medical deployment for a sport that inherently carries high risk the best use of resources? Could these specialist doctors not be needed more in hospitals? Just a thought from a concerned citizen.
N
Nisha Z
Proud of our Tamil culture! 🎉 It's not just a sport, it's about preserving native cattle breeds like Pulikulam. The bulls that win become valuable. This is a holistic tradition connecting agriculture, culture, and bravery. Good job by the district administration on the arrangements.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50