With the Kanwar Yatra set to begin on July 11, preparations across Uttar Pradesh are in full swing. As millions of devotees prepare to embark on their annual pilgrimage to collect holy Ganga water and offer it at Shiva temples, the government has rolled out a comprehensive plan to ensure safety, order, and convenience.
Nameplate Display to Be Mandatory
In line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, the state government will enforce mandatory nameplate rules for all restaurants, hotels, and eateries operating along the Kanwar route and across the state. These nameplates must clearly display the names and addresses of owners, managers, and staff.
According to officials, the move aims to enhance transparency, hygiene monitoring, and public trust during the yatra. Authorities have emphasized that this measure is not political but is being introduced to protect devotees’ health, prevent food adulteration, and ensure a safe and respectful environment.
The government has also banned the sale of meat in open shops along the Kanwar route and prohibited the entry of restricted animals in these areas. Food prices will be regulated to avoid overcharging, and a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced for any violations.
All Facilities Ready for Devotees
Ghaziabad Mayor Sunita Dayal has assured that all preparations for the Kanwar Yatra are complete. She emphasized that the city administration will leave no stone unturned in ensuring a smooth experience for the Kanwariyas (Lord Shiva devotees).
“Clean drinking water, resting shelters, medical aid, and food will be available throughout the yatra route,” she told TFI. “Separate lanes for foot pilgrims, pothole-free roads, and dedicated sanitation teams have been arranged.”
Kanwariyas will be welcomed with flower showers from drones, helicopters, or rooftops, continuing a tradition seen in previous years.
Dayal stated that the administration’s focus is solely on the comfort and safety of devotees and urged all political parties to support the yatra in the spirit of communal harmony.
Massive Security and Traffic Arrangements
The UP Police and local administration have made elaborate security arrangements. CCTV surveillance and police beats every 800 meters are being established.
Starting 6 PM on July 11, heavy vehicles will be banned on major highways to manage the surge of foot traffic. Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) and Special Task Force (STF) teams will be deployed at key temples to maintain law and order.
Yatra Timeline and Mythological Significance
The Kanwar Yatra will officially start at 2:06 AM on July 11, marking the beginning of Sawan’s Krishna Paksha, and will conclude on July 23, with the Jalabhishek ritual on Sawan Shivratri.
Devotees walk for hundreds of kilometers, carrying Ganga water in sacred pots known as Kanwars, and chant “Bol Bam” before offering the water at Shiv temples.
The tradition stems from the legend of Samudra Manthan, when Lord Shiva drank poison to save the world. To ease his suffering, the gods poured Ganga water over him, a ritual that continues to this day.
Other stories suggest that Parashuram was the first Kanwariya, while the name “Kanwar” is also linked to Shravan Kumar, who carried his parents on a pilgrimage using a wooden pole in Treta Yuga.
(This report has been filed by Adheesh Vats)
