Varanasi Prepares for Shrawan: New Entry Point and Enhanced Arrangements at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, is gearing up for the holy month of Shrawan with new arrangements to facilitate the influx of local devotees visiting the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A significant development is the introduction of a new entry point at KV Dham specifically for local devotees who frequent the temple daily during this auspicious period starting from July 22. However, it's important to note that the Sugam Darshan will be suspended on all five Mondays of Shrawan.
Meeting and Decisions
In a crucial meeting held on Tuesday evening, attended by divisional commissioner Kaushal Raj Sharma and commissioner of police Mohit Agarwal, along with officials from the district administration, police, and other relevant departments, comprehensive plans were finalized for Shrawan month. The primary focus was to address the challenges faced by local devotees and enhance their pilgrimage experience.
New Entry Point and Timings
Addressing complaints about misbehavior and chaos at existing entry points, a proposal was made to open a new route through the Nandufaria point. This entry will be accessible to local devotees from 4 AM to 5 AM and 4 PM to 5 PM. Initially, this arrangement will be on a trial basis, with the potential for permanent implementation based on its success. Devotees are encouraged to cooperate by standing in queue and maintaining discipline to ensure smooth operations.
Comprehensive Arrangements for Devotees
Given the expected heavy turnout, especially on Mondays, several measures have been put in place to manage the crowds and enhance the pilgrimage experience:
1. Live Darshan Facilities: To cater to the large number of devotees, live darshan will be available at multiple locations.
2. Multilingual Information Centers: These centers will assist in case of missing persons and provide necessary information to visitors.
3. Free E-Rickshaws: Elderly, disabled individuals, and VIPs will benefit from free e-rickshaw services, as private vehicles will be stopped at Maidagin and Godowlia crossings.
4. CCTV Monitoring: Extensive CCTV coverage will be in place to ensure safety and prevent inconvenience. Existing cameras have been checked, and additional cameras are being installed.
5. Experienced Security Personnel: Experienced security staff will be deployed in and around the sanctum sanctorum to regulate crowds effectively.
6. Zig-Zag Barricades and Sheds: To reduce road crowding, barricades and sheds will be installed within the shrine area.
7. Enhanced Lighting and Public Address System: Increased floodlights along the ghats of the Ganga and an upgraded public address system will ensure better visibility and communication.
Health and Sanitation
The Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) has been instructed to prevent sewerage overflow and maintain cleanliness throughout the Shrawan month. Additionally, the health department will ensure the availability of doctors and paramedical staff around KV Dham to provide timely medical assistance to pilgrims.
Cooperation from Local Traders
Local traders are requested to cooperate with the authorities to ensure the smooth implementation of these arrangements, contributing to a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all devotees.
As the city of Varanasi prepares for the sacred month of Shrawan, the efforts by the authorities to enhance the pilgrimage experience at Kashi Vishwanath Temple reflect their commitment to serving the devotees. The new entry point, along with the comprehensive arrangements, aims to facilitate a smooth and spiritually enriching journey for all who visit during this auspicious time.
