Robust Kanwar Yatra Security Ensures Safe Pilgrimage

The annual Kanwar Yatra, a significant pilgrimage for devotees of Lord Shiva, has commenced with an unprecedented level of preparedness from the Uttar Pradesh Police. In a proactive measure to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage, extensive Kanwar Yatra security arrangements have been meticulously put in place, involving the deployment of specialized forces and advanced technological integration. This year’s focus on comprehensive Kanwar Yatra security aims to provide a secure and peaceful environment for millions of Kanwariyas traversing the state.

Enhanced Personnel for Comprehensive Kanwar Yatra Security

Under the direct supervision of Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Krishna, a multi-layered security grid has been established. The deployment includes a substantial number of law enforcement personnel, demonstrating the commitment to robust Kanwar Yatra security. Specialized units like the Rapid Action Force (RAF), Quick Response Team (QRT), and Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) are strategically positioned across the pilgrimage routes.

The sheer scale of human resource allocation underscores the seriousness of the Kanwar Yatra security initiative. The deployed force comprises 587 Gazetted Officers, 2040 Inspectors, 13,520 Sub-Inspectors, 39,965 Head Constables and Constables, 1,486 Women Sub-Inspectors, and 8,541 Women Head Constables and Constables. In addition to the state police, 50 Companies of Central Police Force and Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC), along with 1,424 Home Guards, have been mobilized to bolster the overall Kanwar Yatra security framework.

Technological Advancements in Kanwar Yatra Security

Beyond traditional manpower, modern technology plays a pivotal role in this year’s Kanwar Yatra security strategy. To maintain constant vigilance and real-time monitoring, 395 drones have been deployed, offering an aerial perspective of the routes and potential choke points. Complementing this, an impressive network of 29,454 CCTV cameras has been installed along the Kanwar routes and in devotee camps, ensuring continuous surveillance and swift response to any incidents.

Furthermore, 24/7 active patrolling is being conducted by briefed UP-112 personnel and their vehicles, ensuring immediate intervention in case of emergencies. Local divers have been strategically positioned along river and canal banks after receiving proper briefing and training, ready to assist in water-related incidents. Barricading and danger signs are prominently erected along these waterways, adding another layer to the comprehensive Kanwar Yatra security.

Ensuring Devotee Well-being and Seamless Communication for Kanwar Yatra Security

The police department is not only focused on preventing threats but also on facilitating the well-being of the devotees. To this end, 1,845 water service centers, 829 medical camps, and 1,222 police help centers and control rooms have been established. These facilities are critical in addressing the immediate needs of the Kanwariyas during their arduous journey.

Effective communication is another cornerstone of the Kanwar Yatra security plan. Important information, including mobile numbers of police officers, traffic diversion schemes, and general safety advisories, is being disseminated through various channels. Barcodes in newspaper advertisements, hoardings, and social media platforms are being utilized to make this crucial information readily accessible to all pilgrims, contributing to overall Kanwar Yatra security awareness.

Strategic Traffic Management and Social Media Vigilance for Kanwar Yatra Security

Managing the large volume of traffic during the yatra is a complex task, and detailed plans have been laid out for efficient traffic management. Adequate lighting, electronic signboards, and indicator signs have been placed at major intersections. Identified highways are designated for traffic diversion, and rehearsals for barricading and route diversion schemes are actively underway to ensure smooth implementation. Information regarding these diversions is being widely circulated through press releases, newspapers, local channels, and social media. Devotees are advised against speeding, and Kanwariyas are instructed to keep to the left side of highways, with camps operating 20 feet from the road to ensure their safety and maintain flow. These measures are vital for maintaining Kanwar Yatra security on the roads.

In an age of rapid information spread, social media monitoring has become an indispensable component of Kanwar Yatra security. An eight-member team at the Social Media Centre of DGP Headquarters is dedicated to monitoring social media inputs, debunking fake news, and taking swift action against those spreading rumors or misinformation that could jeopardize the pilgrimage. Another eight-member team at the DGP headquarters monitors inputs from electronic media, UP-112, and other sources around the clock. This proactive approach helps in maintaining public order and ensuring the smooth conduct of the yatra, reinforcing Kanwar Yatra security against digital threats.

Inter-State Coordination and Special Measures for Kanwar Yatra Security

Recognizing the multi-state nature of the Kanwar Yatra, an inter-state WhatsApp group has been created. This group facilitates seamless coordination and real-time information exchange among officials from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, and Rajasthan regarding routes, security updates, and crowd control. This collaboration is essential for holistic Kanwar Yatra security.

Special attention is also being given to the safety of women Kanwariyas, with a clear directive for immediate action against any indecent behavior. To prevent exploitation, hotels and dhabas along the route are being monitored for food quality, and strict measures are in place to prevent overcharging, with rate lists mandated for display. These specific provisions further enhance the overall Kanwar Yatra security experience for all participants.

The comprehensive and multi-faceted approach adopted by the UP Police demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring a safe, secure, and spiritually fulfilling Kanwar Yatra for all devotees. The blend of robust personnel deployment, cutting-edge technology, and proactive public welfare measures solidifies the framework of Kanwar Yatra security, promising a successful pilgrimage season.