Garhwal Range Deputy Inspector General of Police Pushpak Jyoti met the district magistrate Deepak Rawat and SSP Krishan Kumar VK among others to take stock of the preparations for the Kanwad Yatra beginning on July 10.
DIG Jyoti said that more than 3,000 police officers and personnel have been deputed to ensure a glitch-free Kanwad pilgrimage. He further said that they have been deployed at important places and strategic locations divided under six divisions, 25 zones and 98 sectors. He stressed on co-ordination among all during the period of the pilgrimage which would continue till July 21.
DIG laid thrust on the police verifying the identities of those who are staying in the hotels, dhabas and dharmshalas. All the devotees must be thoroughly checked and none would be allowed to carry hockey sticks and some other prohibited items in the mela area, he said. All efforts would be made keep the traffic smooth with traffic inspectors, traffic police personnel and home guards being deployed on the roads in adequate number. He reminded all present at the meeting that the challenge of ensuring a peaceful pilgrimage is stupendous in view of the expectation of millions flocking to Haridwar from many other states.
The police officers have been asked to see to it that no kanwadiya enters Uttarakhand while playing DJs during the night hours. They have been instructed to steer clear of any dispute with the pilgrims. They would not be allowed to use mobile phones while on duty.
DM Deepak Rawat directed the police officers to respect the religious feeling of kanwadiyas. He further informed that the district administration has made adequate drinking water and lavatory arrangements. Besides, firemen and water police would be there. Ambulances would remain stationed in the Mela area to cater to the medical needs of the pilgrims, he added.