How is Uttarakhand CM Ensuring Safety at Temples Amid High Devotee Turnout?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced safety measures at Uttarakhand temples.
- Mandatory registration for devotees is being implemented.
- Focus on crowd management and improved facilities.
- Formation of a committee to oversee temple operations.
- Response to the recent tragic stampede incident.
Dehradun, July 28 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, convened a meeting with officials on Monday to ensure that proper arrangements are in place at the prominent temples in the state as they experience a significant surge in devotees. He emphasized the need to enhance facilities to address any potential emergencies.
This directive was communicated during a high-level meeting held at the state secretariat. Major temples that are currently seeing a large number of visitors include Mansa Devi in Haridwar, Chandi Devi Temple, Kainchi Dham in Nainital, Jageshwar Temple in Almora, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Pauri, among other renowned sites.
In the coming days, government authorities will focus increased attention and oversight on these religious sites.
CM Pushkar Dhami highlighted the need for effective crowd management, including the registration of devotees, widening walkways and staircases, removal of encroachments, and ensuring the availability of essential facilities to provide a smooth and safe darshan experience for all.
He also instructed the formation of a committee chaired by the commissioners of both divisions, including District Magistrates, Senior Superintendents of Police, Vice Presidents of Development Authorities, and representatives from implementing agencies.
Emphasizing the organized development of the Mansa Devi temple complex and other major temples, he stated that the darshan process should be streamlined and made more efficient for the devotees.
He called for mandatory registration for devotees and the establishment of an effective crowd control system to prevent any inconvenience to others.
The guidelines for regulating the flow of pilgrims are particularly critical following the tragic stampede at Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar on Sunday, which resulted in eight fatalities.
Additionally, the Chief Minister has mandated stricter enforcement of conversion laws in the state. He remarked that Uttarakhand is not only a border state but also a sacred land of Sanatan Dharma, and any attempts to alter its demographics should be firmly opposed, urging the police to monitor such activities closely.
CM Dhami also mentioned the success of Operation Kalanemi in combating anti-social elements and called for its continuation.