JHARKHAND: The administration has ramped up preparations for the famous Shravani Mela 2026 in Deoghar, Jharkhand. To ensure the convenience, safety, and smooth traffic flow for the hundreds of thousands of visiting pilgrims, it has been decided to continue the ‘no-entry zone’ system in the city this year as well. Additionally, in response to complaints about arbitrary fare charges, plans are underway to fix standard fares for Toto and auto-rickshaws.
Pilgrims from across the country travel to Deoghar to perform Jalabhishek (ritual offering of water) at Baba Baidyanath Dham. Anticipating heavy crowds during the month of Sawan, the administration is formulating a special plan to manage traffic, parking, and security, and to streamline pilgrim movement.
‘No-Entry Zone’ to Remain in Effect
To manage the surge in vehicles in Deoghar during the Shravani Mela, a ‘no-entry’ system is implemented on several key routes. The objective is to prevent traffic congestion in the temple vicinity and along the main routes used by pilgrims.
During the no-entry period, the entry of heavy vehicles and other outside vehicles will be prohibited. This will facilitate pedestrian movement for Kanwariyas (pilgrims carrying holy water) and general devotees, while also strengthening security arrangements.
Regulation of Toto and Auto Fares
During the Shravani Mela, a large number of pilgrims rely on Totos and auto-rickshaws to travel from the railway station, bus stand, and parking areas to the temple complex.
Complaints regarding exorbitant fares during peak crowd periods surface every year. In light of this, the administration is preparing to fix a standard fare schedule for Totos and auto-rickshaws.
Once the fixed fares are implemented, action may be taken against operators who charge passengers arbitrarily.
Pilgrim Convenience to be the Top Priority
The administration states that the convenience and safety of pilgrims will be the highest priority during the Shravani Mela. To this end:
Traffic management systems will be improved.
Police forces will be deployed on key routes.
Parking facilities will be arranged.
Drinking water and medical facilities will be provided.
Special teams will be deployed for crowd control. Special Arrangements for Kanwariyas
During the month of Sawan, a large number of Kanwariyas (pilgrims) travel on foot from Sultanganj to Deoghar, carrying holy water from the Ganges. Consequently, special surveillance is maintained along the Kanwariya route and within the temple precincts.
The administration is focusing on improving facilities along the route, including rest areas, medical centers, security arrangements, and other essential amenities.
Instructions for Shopkeepers and Vehicle Operators
The administration will also issue guidelines to shopkeepers, vehicle operators, and service providers associated with the fair. They will be urged to cooperate with the pilgrims and adhere to established regulations.
Vehicle operators, in particular, will be warned against charging fares higher than the prescribed rates.
Strengthening CCTV and Surveillance Systems
To manage crowds and ensure security, CCTV camera networks, control rooms, and police surveillance systems in Deoghar will be strengthened. Security agencies will remain vigilant to take immediate action against any suspicious activity.
Lakhs of Pilgrims Expected at the Fair
The Shravani Mela is one of the country’s largest religious events. Throughout the month of Sawan, lakhs of devotees visit Baba Baidyanath Dham to perform Jalabhishek (offering holy water). In view of this, the administration prepares special traffic and security plans every year.
