Special Preparations for Pilgrims on the Kanwariya Path from Kamray to Deoghar; A Network of Security and Facilities Set in Place
BHAGALPUR/BANKA: The time for the world-famous Shravani Mela 2026 is fast approaching. The entire Kanwariya Path, stretching from Sultanganj (Bhagalpur) to Baba Baidyanath Dham (Deoghar), is ready to resonate with the chants of "Bol-Bam" for this historic fair, which begins on July 31st. Specifically in Kamray and its surrounding areas, the administration has completed preparations on a war footing to ensure a smooth journey for the pilgrims (Kanwariyas). The goal this time is to provide the pilgrims with not just a safe, but a comfortable and pleasant travel experience.
Special Facilities on the Kanwariya Path and Kamray
The administration has strengthened the infrastructure at important stopovers like Kamray along the Kanwariya Path, which spans from Sultanganj to Deoghar:
Layering of Fine Sand: Fine sand from the Ganga has been spread across the entire unpaved Kanwariya Path to facilitate walking for pilgrims traveling barefoot. This will provide relief to their feet even under the scorching sun.
Tent Cities and Rest Houses: Tent cities have been constructed in various blocks for the night stay of devotees, equipped with proper arrangements for food, medical aid, and drinking water.
Sanitation and Hygiene: Personnel have been deployed 24/7 to ensure cleanliness along the Kanwariya Path. Separate toilet and bathroom facilities for men and women have been provided.
Water Sprinklers and Artificial Caves: To provide relief from the heat, water sprinklers have been installed at several points along the route. Additionally, artificial caves have been constructed, which will serve as special attractions for the devotees.
Security and Surveillance: 24-Hour Watch
Prioritizing security above all else, the administration has prepared a comprehensive action plan:
Security Teams: Foot patrols, bike squads, and mounted police will continuously monitor the Kanwariya Path. Every movement along the route will be observed via CCTV cameras.
Temporary Police Stations and Checkposts: To ensure security along the 55-kilometer-long Kanwariya Path in Banka district, over 21 temporary police stations have been established, where police forces will remain deployed around the clock.
Mela Mitra (Volunteers): A large number of volunteers (Mela Mitra) have been deployed to assist the devotees. They have been provided with specific identification cards and uniforms so that pilgrims can easily approach them for help.
Traffic and Encroachment: The administration has issued clear directives that strict action will be taken against any encroachment on the path. Orders have been given to keep the route completely unobstructed for pedestrians.
Health Services and Emergency Arrangements
Medical Camps: Health camps have been set up at regular intervals along the Kanwariya Path. Doctors and ambulance services will be available in these camps 24/7.
Uninterrupted Power and Lighting: To make the journey easy and safe during the night, the entire Kanwariya route has been decorated with colorful lights and digital lighting.
Administration's Appeal and Preparation
While minor challenges—such as construction work and the repair of potholes in a few locations—are in their final stages, high-ranking district officials are reviewing these preparations on a daily basis. The administration has appealed to the devotees to strictly follow the designated path and contact the nearest help center or a 'Mela Mitra' in case of any emergency.
The arrangements this time are more organized than in previous years, aimed at ensuring a "smooth" and "safe" Kanwariya Yatra for lakhs of pilgrims. Every devotee of Lord Shiva passing through Kamray will experience something new and pleasant this time, which will prove helpful in making their difficult penance easier.
