With the final major bath of Maha Shivratri set to take place on February 26, the Uttar Pradesh government has ramped up preparations to ensure a smooth experience for devotees visiting Ayodhya. Authorities are focusing on crowd management, security, and essential services as the city braces for a massive influx of pilgrims.
Ayodhya Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi has assured that all necessary arrangements are in place. "We are working to guarantee the comfort of the pilgrims travelling to Ayodhya. We met with the district government today, and we made a lot of provisions for the people's comfort," he said in a statement to ANI. He emphasized that devotees would not face any inconvenience, as traffic diversions, sanitation, and water supply have all been optimized.
Two significant Shiva temples, Nageshwarnath and Kshireshwar Nath, hold historical importance in Ayodhya, and the administration has made dedicated arrangements to accommodate worshippers. Tripathi reiterated that the authorities are committed to providing a seamless experience for devotees, ensuring their safety and well-being.
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Given the surge in footfall, additional security personnel have been deployed across key locations, particularly at Ayodhya Dham Railway Station. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Yashwant Singh confirmed that over 350 personnel have been stationed to manage the crowd effectively. “We are ensuring that only passengers with confirmed tickets are allowed onto the platform when their train arrives,” he stated.
Barricades have been placed to regulate movement, and regular announcements are being made to keep travelers informed. A designated holding area has been set up to prevent overcrowding on platforms, a measure implemented following the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on February 15, which resulted in 18 fatalities and multiple injuries.
In response to the New Delhi incident, the Ministry of Railways has initiated plans to construct permanent holding areas at around 60 railway stations nationwide to improve crowd control. This initiative aligns with a broader strategy to ensure safer and smoother transit for passengers at high-footfall stations.
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh and Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar recently inspected preparations at Mahakumbh Nagar. "We are making comprehensive arrangements for traffic control, crowd management, and ensuring a smooth experience for devotees," DGP Kumar stated. The administration remains committed to minimizing inconvenience and ensuring a secure environment for all pilgrims arriving for the auspicious Maha Shivratri celebrations.