Bhagalpur, July 1: Comprehensive security arrangements are being made for the Shravani Mela 2026, set to take place in SultanGanj. Bhagalpur’s SSP, Pramod Kumar Yadav, provided this information, highlighting that a detailed plan has been developed considering safety, crowd management, traffic control, parking, and the rising water levels of the Ganges. Approximately 4,000 to 5,000 police personnel and officials are proposed to be deployed.
In a conversation on Wednesday, Pramod Kumar Yadav emphasized that the Shravani Mela is undoubtedly a significant festival. From a policing and security perspective, it requires extensive arrangements. Not only is security crucial, but also the safe and organized management of the crowd is vital. The district magistrate has conducted multiple inspections of the mela area, and a recent joint visit assessed the steps, water depth, slopes, and other safety-related factors. It was noted that the Ganges’ water level tends to rise about a week after the festival begins, affecting several surrounding areas. To address this, soil levels are being raised in certain locations, and arrangements are being improved.
The SSP mentioned that surveillance will be conducted using drones, along with extensive use of CCTV cameras. Several locations have been identified to enhance crowd flow and line management, including installing railings, removing obstacles, and leveling pathways. Some areas within the Ajgaibinath temple complex have narrow entrances. Inspections revealed that last year, a couple of female devotees fell into a pit, resulting in injuries. All such locations have been marked for necessary improvements this year.
Pramod Kumar Yadav stated that foot patrols, bike patrols, and mounted units will also be deployed during the festival. Additionally, specific areas near the police station and railway station, which are often dark and prone to theft attempts, have been identified for enhanced security measures.
He noted that the district administration has been requested to improve lighting in these areas. All minor security issues are being addressed to strengthen arrangements. Police personnel and officials will be stationed for over a month during the festival. Meetings have been held to ensure facilities such as toilets and accommodations for female police officers are in place. Most arrangements are nearly finalized, and formal requisitions will be sent soon. If any new security concerns arise, management will adapt accordingly. This year, the Shravani Mela is set to conclude successfully with improved security.
When asked about the number of security personnel, he indicated that an increase in the number of devotees is expected compared to last year. Therefore, a demand for approximately 50% more security forces has been made. A requisition for around 4,000 to 5,000 police personnel and officials is being prepared, although the final count is still being assessed and may vary. Adequate personnel will be deployed to ensure smooth operations throughout the festival without any incidents.
Regarding traffic management, he mentioned that a special plan is in place. Parking will be established near Baba Chowk on the highway, and devotees will be transported to Krishna Ghar Chowk via auto-rickshaws and smaller vehicles. If the crowd is manageable, vehicles may be allowed to proceed further. Particularly on Mondays and the day before, when the number of devotees peaks, vehicles will be halted earlier, and smaller vehicles will be used for transport. Additionally, road markings and whitewashing will be carried out for better navigation. Yellow lines will be designated for roadside vendors to keep the roads as clear as possible.
The SSP further stated that the aim of all these arrangements is to prevent any stampede-like situations and ensure no devotee faces difficulties. Devotees coming for Ganga bathing and water collection should be able to reach the ghats easily and depart safely for Baidyanath Dham after their rituals. The administration is fully committed to providing better and more effective security for devotees this year.
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