Thoothukudi, June 15 -- The administration of the Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple has intensified efforts to remove more than 500 small-scale vendors who have been selling flowers, fruits, photographs, toys, garlands, sundal, pani puri, and other items along the Girivalam pathway and pedestrian areas surrounding the temple.

These vendors, who have depended on the temple surroundings for their livelihood for many years, opposed the move, stating that they have been earning their daily income through these businesses. The temple administration, however, cited obstruction to devotees' movement and overcrowding during festivals and peak pilgrimage periods as the reason for the eviction drive.

As part of the operation, temple security p...