Coimbatore Collector flags off autism awareness walkathon

The district collector Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar on Wednesday created a sense of resilience by holding the flag in the hand of an autistic child during the autism awareness walkathon held in the city.
A walkathon was held at the Race Course by the district differently-abled welfare department on the occasion of World Autism Day. More than 50 children and their parents participated in the walkathon. 
The collector released blue balloons to create awareness about autism. While kick-starting the walkathon, he began by holding the flag in the hand of an autistic child and waving the flag. This gesture moved everyone present. Speaking to the media, he said that steps should be taken to raise awareness about autism among the public. Treatment should be provided immediately upon diagnosing the first symptom of autism in children, and the district administration is taking all measures in collaboration with various private organizations, he added. Regarding the Maruthamalai Kumbabishekam, he said that he along with department officials carried out inspections at the temple a couple of days ago, and that arrangements for parking, toilets and drinking water facilities, and setting up of a control room are being carried out. He also said that all efforts are being taken to prevent untoward incidents since a large number of devotees are expected to attend. Responding to a question about the vehicles to be provided to the differently-abled at the collectorate, he said that steps will be taken to provide the vehicles soon.