District magistrate Haridwar HC Semwal instructed all the sector and zonal magistrates of Kanwar Mela to be vigilant during the entire stretch of the religious congregation. He put them on alert after he met them at Mela Bhawan on Wednesday.
Notably, the area of Kanwar Mela has been divided into 25 zones and 94 sectors for security and other reasons.
DM asked the officials to check water supply, medical and fire arrangements in their respective areas. He also asked them to keep eyes on the emergency exit points aside from ensuring that the shops display rate lists. The weighing machines of the shops should be tested too, he said. He added that under no circumstances, the devotees would be allowed to carry hockey sticks, bamboo sticks longer than six inches, high audible music system and any sharp edged metal weapon.
He further stressed on frequent checking of public utilities and their maintenance and cleanliness. Supply or consumption of drugs in any form and other alcoholic items will be totally banned throughout the mela period, DM said.