Bhagalpur: With the annual Shravani Mela just weeks away, preparations are in full swing to welcome the thousands of Kanwariyas expected to flock to the city. Authorities in Sultanganj have unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at ensuring the safety, comfort, and spiritual experience of pilgrims walking barefoot to collect holy water from the Ganga.
The Municipal Council has announced a series of infrastructure and service upgrades, including the application of colourful, heat-resistant paint along the two-and-a-half-kilometre urban stretch of the Kanwaria path. “The paint will help reduce the discomfort for barefoot devotees walking through the city,” said Municipal Council Chairman Rajkumar Guddu, adding that this year’s facilities would surpass those provided in previous editions of the mela.
In addition, a grand frame gate is set to be installed between the Namami Gange Ghat and the local railway station following orders from the District Magistrate, symbolising a ceremonial welcome for the pilgrims.
Security and sanitation have also been prioritised. On Monday, a joint inspection was carried out by Chairman Guddu and Police Station Incharge Mrityunjay Kumar. The team reviewed key fair sites, including Ajai Vi Nath Temple Ghat, Kamrain, Abjuganj Chowk, and the under-construction four-lane road and railway overbridge. During the visit, Guddu directed the Public Health and Engineering Department (PHED) to install a women’s urinal near the road leading to the Ajai Vi Nath Temple Ghat.
Speaking about safety measures, Police Station Incharge Kumar confirmed that plans are in place for the deployment of police posts, adequate lighting, and improved traffic management throughout the mela area. “We want to ensure that devotees from across the country experience a secure and well-organised event,” he said.
Local officials including ward councillors Naveen Kumar Banni and Subhash Kumar, along with PHED engineers, were also present during the inspection.
