Will the Kanwar Yatra Route See Liquor Shops Covered?
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Synopsis
As the Kanwar Yatra approaches, the Uttarakhand government plans to shield liquor shops along the pilgrimage route with curtains to honor the religious sentiments of devotees. This initiative aims to ensure a peaceful pilgrimage experience amidst strict regulations for local businesses.
Key Takeaways
- Liquor shops along the Kanwar route will be covered with curtains.
- Approximately 28 shops affected by this decision.
- Measures taken to respect religious sentiments of devotees.
- Mobile toilets and health services will be available along the route.
- Uttarakhand Kanwar Seva App will provide essential information.
New Delhi, July 7 (NationPress) The Uttarakhand government is set to shield nearly 28 liquor shops located along the highways and pathways frequented by Kanwar devotees during the sacred month of Shravan, according to an official announcement made on Monday.
“These shops, including their signboards, will be draped with curtains. There are no plans to close them,” stated Haridwar District Excise Officer Kailash Chandra Binjola in a conversation with IANS.
He elaborated that preparations are underway to cover the shops with curtains to respect the religious sentiments of the devotees and ensure a peaceful pilgrimage.
“Initial assessments indicate that approximately 28 such establishments fall along the routes taken by Kanwariyas. These coverings will be installed prior to the initiation of the pilgrimage,” he mentioned.
He cautioned that notifications will be sent to shop owners who do not adhere to the guidelines.
This restriction on liquor outlets will complement directives from the administration requiring dhabas and hotels along the Kanwariyas' path to display owner names, food licenses, menus, and pricing lists.
Last week, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conducted a review of the preparations for the forthcoming Kanwar Yatra and instructed officials to guarantee a clean, safe, and secure pilgrimage experience for the Kanwariyas.
A series of resolutions were made during the high-level meeting led by CM Dhami, including the introduction of the Uttarakhand Kanwar Seva App for public assistance, the mandatory display of food licenses, and a crackdown on false and misleading information, among others.
CM Dhami emphasized the need for extensive preparations, the knowledge from which could be utilized for organizing the next Kumbh Mela in the state.
The state administration is committed to ensuring a sustainable and clean Kanwar Yatra, deploying mobile toilets, water supplies, and dedicated waste disposal vehicles every 1-2 km within a 30 km radius of Haridwar, Roorkee, Rishikesh, and nearby areas.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to guarantee the presence of health centers, ambulances, and medical personnel every 5 km.
Officials have been tasked with enhancing the Uttarakhand Kanwar Seva App, which will provide comprehensive details for Kanwariyas.
Additionally, CM Dhami stated that dhabas and hotels along the travel route must meet safety standards and display food licenses.
“It is essential to ensure full compliance with travel regulations and cleanliness. During this period, traffic management should utilize drones and AI technology,” he noted.
Authorities have also been advised to monitor social media closely and take strict action against anyone disseminating misleading information during the Kanwar Yatra.
The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage undertaken by devotees of Lord Shiva, who collect holy water from the Ganges during the auspicious month of Shravan. This sacred water is then offered to Lord Shiva at their hometowns.
Point of View
It is my belief that the Uttarakhand government's decision to cover liquor shops during the Kanwar Yatra is a commendable step towards maintaining the sanctity of this revered pilgrimage. By taking these measures, the administration not only respects the religious sentiments of devotees but also ensures a peaceful environment for all participants.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are liquor shops being covered during the Kanwar Yatra?
Liquor shops are being covered to respect the religious sentiments of Kanwar devotees and to ensure a peaceful pilgrimage experience.
How many liquor shops will be covered?
Approximately 28 liquor shops located along the routes taken by Kanwar devotees will be covered.
What other measures are being taken for the Kanwar Yatra?
In addition to covering liquor shops, the government is deploying mobile toilets, health centers, and ensuring that dhabas and hotels comply with safety standards.
What is the Kanwar Yatra?
The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage where devotees of Lord Shiva collect holy water from the Ganges and offer it at their local temples during the month of Shravan.
Will the liquor shops be closed during the pilgrimage?
No, the liquor shops will remain open; only their signboards will be covered.
