PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
With lakhs of devotees expected to participate in the Kanwad Yatra, the Uttarakhand Police has intensified preparations to ensure that the Yatra proceeds without disruption and that both pilgrims and locals experience a safe and organised environment throughout the event. Since the Kanwad Yatra is set to begin today, senior police officials of Uttarakhand on Thursday held a comprehensive briefing to ensure smooth conduct of Kanwad Mela.
The additional director general of police (Law and Order) V Murugesan and inspector general of police, Garhwal Range, Rajeev Swaroop addressed police personnel deployed across Dehradun, Pauri and Tehri districts. They directed that traffic movement during the Yatra must be managed strictly in accordance with the pre-approved traffic plan.
Murugesan said that the implementation should be effective in maintaining order while ensuring that local residents do not face unnecessary inconvenience. He instructed the police force to remain alert and carry out duties with a spirit of cooperation. He directed to put special focus on maintaining a respectful and helpful approach towards Kanwad pilgrims and asked all personnel to act in accordance with the principle of Atithi Devo Bhava.
The IG also talked about the importance of clear communication, coordination across departments and prompt response to any untoward incidents. In addition to traffic and crowd management, the officers stressed the need for strict surveillance of social media platforms and other communication channels. Respective S/SPs have been instructed to identify and take immediate action against individuals or groups attempting to spread rumours or disrupt public order through misinformation.
Senior district officials including Pauri SSP Lokeshwar Singh, Dehradun SSP Ajai Singh and Tehri SP Ayush Agarwal were also present in the briefing and issued instructions to their teams. They reiterated the importance of discipline, vigilance, and public-friendly policing during the Yatra period.
