UditVani, Jamshedpur : As the sacred Shravani Mela draws near, set to commence on July 11, Jharkhand Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari has issued stringent directives to ensure seamless crowd control and comprehensive safety arrangements across key pilgrimage sites—Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar and Basukinath Dham in Dumka.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on Tuesday, Chief Secretary Tiwari instructed officials to leave no room for lapses, emphasizing that devotee safety is of paramount importance.
The session saw participation from senior officials including DGP Anurag Gupta, district magistrates, police superintendents, and department heads from Deoghar and Dumka.
Over 50 Lakh Devotees Expected
With an estimated 50 lakh pilgrims expected over the month-long spiritual gathering—culminating on August 9—the administration is in overdrive mode to put foolproof mechanisms in place to avoid congestion, stampedes, and other logistical hazards.
Key Focus: Smart Crowd Control and Surveillance
The Chief Secretary underscored the need for regulated entry in smaller groups, especially during peak hours such as temple openings. AI-enabled CCTV cameras and drones will be deployed to monitor crowd density in real time, enabling swift interventions wherever necessary.
Personnel on duty must maintain their posts until relieved, ensuring there are no gaps in surveillance or management. Specific attention is to be given to Monday and Sunday rushes, which typically witness an influx of devotees.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Safety Protocols
To prevent accidents and ensure smooth foot movement:
* Pathways must be leveled and obstacle-free, especially for barefoot pilgrims.
* Stairways and elevated surfaces are to be made non-slippery and well-maintained.
* Separate walking lanes must be clearly demarcated to streamline flow.
* Metal detectors at entry points should not become bottlenecks.
* Electrical safety is a priority — all loose or exposed wires are to be removed.
* Backup power systems must be ready for emergencies.
Inspections, Cleanliness & Public Facilities
Senior officials from the infrastructure and emergency response departments have been tasked with onsite inspections and real-time rectification of issues.
Accountability has been fixed at all levels to ensure quick action and adherence to protocols.
Given the monsoon season, the focus on cleanliness and hygiene has been elevated.
Key measures include:
* Availability of clean drinking water,
* Regular toilet maintenance,
* Prompt replacement of bed covers in tent accommodations.
Tech-Supported Public Communication
* To enhance the pilgrim experience and facilitate grievance redressal:
* QR codes will be installed across the mela area for complaints and suggestions.
* Hoardings with information on medical services, traffic plans, rest zones, and helplines will be strategically placed.
* Comprehensive Coverage: From Kanwaria Path to Fire Safety
The review meeting also covered preparedness in areas including:
* Kanwaria Path condition,
* Road infrastructure,
* Traffic and accommodation planning,
* Fire safety arrangements,
* Ambulance availability,
* Adequate lighting in public areas.
As the countdown begins, the Jharkhand administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that this year’s Shravani Mela remains a safe, organized, and spiritually enriching experience for millions of devotees.
