Uttar Pradesh Ramps Up Arrangements for Kanwar Yatra Starting July 30

The Uttar Pradesh government has finalised preparations for the Kanwar Yatra, which will commence on July 30. The month-long pilgrimage, known as Shravan month, sees lakhs of devotees travelling to holy sites, particularly Haridwar.

In a series of directives, the government has instructed the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) to enhance bus services along key routes to handle the expected surge in pilgrims. Additional buses will be deployed, especially on the Haridwar route, which attracts the highest number of Kanwar pilgrims from the state. Services on routes connecting Lucknow, Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, Varanasi and Prayagraj will also be increased based on demand.

Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh said the aim is to ensure smooth movement of Kanwariyas while maintaining regular public transport services. UPSRTC Managing Director Prabhu Narayan Singh announced that 24x7 control rooms will operate at every regional headquarters from the start to the end of the yatra. These control rooms will monitor bus operations, coordinate with district administrations and address operational issues in real time.

Officials have been directed to equip bus stations on Kanwar routes with drinking water, clean toilets, adequate seating, inquiry counters, public announcement systems, food stalls and proper sanitation to manage the increased footfall.

Emphasising road safety, the government has mandated breath analyser tests for UPSRTC bus drivers, adherence to speed limits, and close coordination between regional managers and district administrations for traffic management and route diversions. Diversion plans issued by district administrations will be communicated via WhatsApp groups, telephone networks and other channels to minimise disruption.

These measures follow recent review meetings chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during which he ordered closure of meat and liquor shops along Kanwar routes, strict enforcement of DJ sound and Kanwar height norms, enhanced surveillance through CCTV cameras, drones and police patrolling, and action against those spreading rumours or fake news.

In the Meerut zone, four temporary police stations and 58 temporary police outposts have been established to ensure devotees' safety and provide prompt police assistance. Meerut zone DIG Kalanidhi Naithani said these stations and outposts aim to maintain law and order along Kanwar routes and fairgrounds, manage crowds, and ensure rapid emergency response.

Officials have also been instructed to maintain a courteous approach towards devotees and extend all possible assistance. UPSRTC operations should not obstruct the yatra, and buses will ply only on alternative routes notified by district administrations where diversions are in force.