Enhanced Security Measures for Kanwar Yatra 2025 in Shahjahanpur

Overview of Kanwar Yatra

The Kanwar Yatra, an annual pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva, commences from either Gomukh or Gangotri. Devotees collect sacred water from the Ganges in small containers and transport it to Neelkanth, where it is offered to Lord Shiva. This pilgrimage occurs during the month of Shravan, which aligns with July-August in the Hindu calendar. Initially undertaken by saints and holy figures, the journey has now attracted thousands of participants from various states including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. Participants, ranging from young to elderly, including women and sometimes children, chant slogans like 'Bol Bam' and 'Har Har Mahadev' along the way. Ensuring their safety has become a significant responsibility.

Security Arrangements for the Upcoming Yatra

As the Shravan month approaches next month, Kanwar pilgrims passing through Shahjahanpur will be escorted by police for their safety. CCTV cameras will be installed along the entire route of the Kanwar Yatra, and drone surveillance will also be utilized. Pilgrims will travel approximately 160 kilometers from Panchal Ghat in the neighboring Farrukhabad district to perform water offerings at the Shiva temple in Gola Gokarnath, Lakhimpur Kheri, passing through 100 kilometers of Shahjahanpur.

Police Preparedness and Monitoring

The police administration has implemented special measures to ensure the safety of the Kanwar devotees. Superintendent of Police Rajesh Dwivedi stated that pilgrims will be under police protection throughout the journey. Camps will be set up outside every police station along the route, staffed with police personnel. Each camp leader will coordinate with the next station to ensure a seamless transition of police support for the pilgrims. Additionally, police response vehicles will patrol the Kanwar Yatra route.

The Superintendent mentioned that police officers will monitor the assigned routes and record their online attendance. CCTV cameras will be installed along the entire pilgrimage route, with access to these feeds available on mobile devices and at the control room headquarters. When asked about any intelligence reports prompting these extensive security measures, Dwivedi clarified that there are no specific alerts; it is the police's duty to ensure the safe passage of the Kanwar pilgrims. The Shravan month will run from July 11 to August 9 this year.