Uttarakhand CM Dhami reviews Kanwar Yatra preparations, orders tight security and safety measures

With the annual Kanwar Yatra set to begin on July 10, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday to review preparedness concerning law and order, disaster management, and public safety.

The meeting saw top police officials and administrative heads in attendance as the state gears up to welcome lakhs of Shiva devotees.

Emphasising tight border vigilance and internal security, the Chief Minister called for strict implementation of verification drives across all districts. He also instructed authorities to act decisively against illegal encroachments to ensure an orderly environment for pilgrims.

“Monitoring should be ensured through CCTV and drones on the Kanwar Yatra route, and the traffic control system should be made effective,” Dhami said while addressing the gathering. He stressed the need for enhanced surveillance measures, including the use of drones and CCTV, to maintain a secure environment throughout the yatra corridor.

To handle any emergency situations, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure the availability of heli-ambulance services. He also laid special emphasis on strengthening women’s safety frameworks and demanded real-time monitoring of public grievance redressal mechanisms.

The Chief Minister highlighted that timely tracking and resolution of public complaints is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring administrative accountability.

Additionally, Dhami reiterated the state government’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse. “Work effectively on the policy of zero tolerance against drug addiction and drugs,” he instructed, urging interdepartmental coordination throughout the duration of the pilgrimage.

Earlier, in coordination with Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat, the state’s Health Department finalised a comprehensive action plan to ensure safe and hygienic food for devotees.

According to an official statement, special food safety teams have been deployed across key districts including Haridwar, Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, and Uttarkashi. These teams will be actively collecting samples of food items such as milk, sweets, oils, spices, and beverages from temporary stalls and pandals. If any sample fails to meet health standards, authorities will take immediate action and shut down the concerned facility.

The Kanwar Yatra sees Shiva devotees, or Kanwariyas, collect holy water from rivers and travel on foot over long distances to offer it at shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. This annual pilgrimage is marked by prayers, fasting, and deep devotion, drawing participants from across the country.