A Major Gift from the Tourism Department for Shravani Mela; A State-of-the-Art 500-Bed Tent City Under Construction in Dhandhi Belari
SULTANGANJ (Bhagalpur): Recognizing the grandeur of the world-famous Shravani Mela and the ever-increasing number of pilgrims, the Bihar Tourism Department has launched a unique initiative in Sultanganj. With the aim of providing world-class facilities and accommodation for Kanwariyas (pilgrims), a state-of-the-art 'Tent City' with a capacity of 500 beds is being constructed in Dhandhi Belari, Sultanganj. This Tent City will not only be a comfortable shelter for the pilgrims but will also serve as an excellent example of modern infrastructure.
Special Arrangements for Pilgrim Comfort
During the Shravani Mela, millions of pilgrims arrive in Sultanganj to collect holy Ganga water and depart for Deoghar. The issue of accommodation due to overcrowding has always been a major challenge. To address this, the Tourism Department has selected the expansive premises of Dhandhi Belari. This 500-bed Tent City will provide pilgrims with a home-like experience.
According to Tourism Department officials, the structure of this Tent City is being designed to ensure pilgrims face no inconvenience. Beyond just accommodation, special attention has been paid to safety and hygiene.
Equipped with State-of-the-Art Facilities
Key features of this Tent City include:
24/7 Power Supply: Arrangements for power backup and generators have been made to ensure uninterrupted electricity, so pilgrims do not face any trouble during the scorching heat or at night.
Clean Drinking Water: RO plants and water coolers are being installed throughout the premises so that health-conscious pilgrims have access to safe, clean water.
Modern Toilets and Bathrooms: Prioritizing hygiene, a sufficient number of modern toilets and bathing facilities are being constructed.
Food and Medical Facilities: Along with arrangements for pure and Satvik food for the pilgrims, a temporary medical center is also being established on the premises. First aid and ambulance services will be available 24/7.
Security Arrangements: The entire premises will be monitored via CCTV cameras. Additionally, security personnel will be deployed to handle any untoward situation.
The Tourism Department’s Action Plan
The Tourism Department has set a goal to complete this project on a war footing. All arrangements will be finalized before the inauguration of the fair. This Tent City in Dhandhi Belari will not only be a refuge for Kanwariyas but will also prove to be a significant step toward promoting religious tourism in Bihar.
The department’s endeavor is to develop Sultanganj into a major tourism hub, where pilgrims receive both spiritual peace and modern amenities.
Local Administration and Public Participation
The local administration is also showing high levels of activity in the construction of this Tent City. A special action plan has been prepared by the police administration to manage traffic flow. The District Magistrate has personally inspected the site and issued strict instructions to maintain the quality of construction.
Local residents believe that the construction of the Tent City will not only benefit visiting pilgrims but will also give a boost to the local economy. Shopkeepers and small business owners will get better employment opportunities during the fair.
The Changing Face of the Fair
The nature of the Shravani Mela has undergone massive changes in the last few years. Now, emphasis is being placed on making the fair safer and more organized by balancing technology and management. This Tent City in Dhandhi Belari is a major part of this evolution. Pilgrims are quite excited about this facility, as they will no longer have to spend nights under the open sky or beneath trees.
This effort by the Tourism Department in Sultanganj is highly commendable. The Dhandhi Belari project will emerge as a model for other pilgrimage sites in the near future. The journey from the Ganga will now be even more comfortable and safer for Kanwariyas. This modern Tent City is ready to welcome the Shiva devotees arriving for the Shravani Mela 2026.
