Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 23 Jun: Chief Secretary (CS) Anand Bardhan chaired a high-level review meeting today to assess the preparations for the upcoming Kanwad Mela, scheduled from 11 to 23 July. He directed all the departments and executing agencies concerned to ensure timely completion of arrangements for the smooth and safe conduct of the event.
On this occasion, Bardhan also emphasised the need for strict action against individuals indulging in intoxication, creating disturbance, or inciting violence during the Mela. He also ordered a ban on large DJ sound systems, aligning with recent safety advisories issued in Haridwar and adjoining districts.
During the meeting, the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) were instructed to maintain regular sanitation, provide adequate toilet facilities, and ensure sufficient parking arrangements. The Water Supply Department was directed to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, while the Food Safety Department was told to conduct regular inspections of food and beverage vendors. Bardhan also directed the Civil Supplies Department was asked to prevent overcharging. He warned that any lapse in sanitation, water supply, or parking would invite strict action against the departments responsible.
The CS also directed the Irrigation Department to ensure cleanliness and security at bathing ghats and bridges. He urged all departments to hold timely coordination meetings and issue necessary directives.
The Kanwad Mela will include the Panchak period from 13 to 17 July, Dak Kanwad from 20 to 23 July, and Jalabhishek on Shravan Shivratri, 23 July.
During the meeting, the District Magistrate and SSP, Haridwar, presented a comprehensive plan covering traffic management, parking, crowd control, and security. The Mela area has been divided into 16 super zones, 37 zones, and 134 sectors for better administration.
The officials also discussed challenges related to infrastructure, including the need for temporary and permanent construction works, and the associated budgetary provisions. District administrations of Dehradun, Pauri, and Tehri shared their preparedness and financial requirements.
Among those present at the meeting included Additional Director General of Police (ADG) V Murugesan, Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey, Inspector General KS Nagnyal, and senior officials from Haridwar, Dehradun, Pauri, and Tehri.
For this year’s Mela, authorities have also introduced new guidelines for food vendors, requiring them to display rate lists and maintain hygiene standards. Shops along highways are being asked to shift back by eight feet to ensure smooth traffic flow.
