Kochi: A preparatory meeting announced that the New Year celebration in Fort Kochi, the ‘Cochin Carnival’, will be organised on a larger scale. The meeting was held under the leadership of district collector G Priyanka and MLA Muhammad Shiyas on Saturday.Last year, around seven to eight lakh people attended the carnival. The MLA said they expect an even bigger turnout this time. Cultural programmes will be staged at Veli Ground, Vasco da Gama Beach, and Parade Ground. He added that this year’s carnival will feature a mix of diverse art performances and visual spectacles designed for families, children, and youth to enjoy.The MLA said common arrangements should be ensured at each venue for drinking water, toilet facilities, parking, and bus services.The collector reviewed the responsibilities assigned to each department during the meeting. The police department was tasked with maintaining law and order. Police will also prepare venue security measures, emergency response arrangements, and the parking plan. Under the health department, ambulances, health workers, and emergency medical assistance will be made available. Food safety squads will be ensured during the carnival days.Corporation secretary was assigned to ensure sufficient bio-toilets at the venues. It was noted that streetlights have been installed everywhere, and instructions were given to ensure all of them are functioning. KSRTC will manage bus scheduling and issue temporary permits for additional required buses. Ro-Ro boats will operate services to Fort Kochi until 7pm. There will also be services to take people back from the venues through the night into the morning.Ro-Ro operations at night will follow safety norms. Six boats from the transport department will also run services to help move people out. Lighting at the boat jetty and police presence will be ensured. Only the permitted number of passengers will be allowed on boats.Stage safety, fire inspections, and electrical inspections must be completed properly. KSEB was tasked with ensuring uninterrupted power supply. Streetlight maintenance should be completed in advance. Kerala Water Authority was assigned to ensure round-the-clock drinking water at the venues and beaches. Facilities such as lights, fire extinguishers, dinghies, and civil defense volunteers will be arranged at the venues. A control room operating round the clock will also be set up to coordinate all departments.The major events will take place over the final five days, from Dec 27 to 31. The MLA and collector instructed all departments to stay extra alert on days when larger crowds are expected. In the second week of Dec, the collector will convene a meeting to review the arrangements put in place by the departments.