With heart-shaped balloons and roses, Church Street dipped into the pink hue of Valentine’s week, as people thronged the street on Saturday evening to begin early celebrations.
The joy was visible from the frantic sifting of the jewellery displayed at the stalls and the way couples danced to music players' tunes. Indeed, the crowd was lost in the myriad of activities along the street.
“Ever since Church Street became a traffic-free zone, the footfall has increased,” said Irfan Noor, secretary, Church Street Shops Association.
“It is the same this weekend. Nothing extraordinary happening here for the Valentine’s weekend, but the crowd may swell considering it is the weekend.”
A young couple enjoying their time at the street said they are looking forward to a relaxing weekend.
"Since restrictions were imposed during Christmas and New Year, we are looking forward to enjoying the time on the street for Valentine’s Day," they said.
Scene at Brigade Road
The scenario at the adjacent Brigade Road was quite different. With parking restrictions imposed from the Cauvery Emporium and Opera House junction, the crowd here was thinner.
Aiming to make the street safe for visitors, adequate measures have been taken during the weekend to prevent any untoward incidents.
All the performers have been asked to wear ID cards and masks, while anyone appearing suspicious is being removed from the venue by the marshals, one of the organisers at Church Street told DH.
Safety measures in place
A senior Cubbon Park police official said they received information about an increased turnout during Valentine's Day celebrations on Sunday in Church Street and adjoining areas. There will be an additional deployment of personnel, besides regular patrolling on the street.
"We don't want any untoward incident on that day," the official clarified.