Review of Preparations for Shravani Mela 2026

Deoghar: A high-level review meeting on preparations for the upcoming State-run Shravani Mela 2026 was held at the Deoghar Circuit House auditorium. The meeting was chaired by State Minister Sudivya Kumar. Officials from Deoghar and Dumka districts presented updates on preparations in the fair area, arrangements for devotees, security measures and the planned use of modern technology. Addressing the meeting, the minister said that devotees arriving from across the country during the Shravani Mela, beginning on July 31, should have a safe, convenient and pleasant pilgrimage experience. He made it clear that out-of-turn darshan, as well as VIP and VVIP darshan facilities, would remain completely suspended during the fair to ensure that ordinary devotees do not face any inconvenience.He said that the Shravani Mela is a symbol of Jharkhand’s identity and pride. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all departments to ensure that pilgrims visiting Baba Baidyanath Dham return with fond memories. During the review, detailed discussions were held on works being carried out by the electricity, road construction, municipal, drinking water, health, tourism, public relations, building construction and police departments. Officials were instructed to complete all projects within the stipulated timeframe. Special emphasis was also placed on completing the Deoghar–Basukinath four-lane road project before the commencement of the fair.

Round-the-clock basic amenities to be available across the fairgrounds

The meeting reviewed arrangements for police outposts, traffic outposts, health centres, information and assistance centres, tourism centres, maternity centres and power stations to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees. Directions were also issued to maintain round-the-clock services related to tent cities, toilets, drinking water, bathing facilities, waste bins, sanitation and garbage disposal.The minister instructed officials to strengthen street lighting, decorative installations, welcome gates and uninterrupted power supply across the fair area, along with robust backup lighting arrangements. He also directed authorities to further develop the QR code-based feedback system so that devotees can directly report grievances and suggestions to the administration.Considering the summer heat, officials were asked to increase the number of mist cooling systems and artificial rain facilities and further strengthen healthcare services. Directions were also issued for coordinated planning of law and order, crowd management, crime control, parking facilities and traffic regulation.

Complete ban on double-decker tractor-trolleys

Giving top priority to safety, the administration has decided to impose a complete ban on the entry of double-decker tractor-trolleys and overloaded vehicles during the Shravani Mela. The minister said such vehicles are a major cause of accidents and pose serious risks to devotees.He directed officials to launch an extensive awareness campaign on the issue. Special police teams will be deployed at entry points and key routes to monitor overloaded and illegally modified vehicles. Devotees have also been urged to use only buses, trains and other authorised passenger transport services.

Shravani Mela to be equipped with Face Recognition and AI technology

A wide range of modern technologies will be deployed during this year’s Shravani Mela. To strengthen security and improve management, the administration will introduce face recognition systems, Aadhaar counters, an AI-powered integrated fair control room, AI-based chatbot information and helpline services, an AI-driven traffic management system, a location-based attendance system and a digital pavilion.Following the meeting, Deoghar Deputy Commissioner Saurabh Kumar Bhuvania felicitated Minister Sudivya Kumar and other public representatives and senior officials with mementoes. The programme was attended by officials, engineers, police officers and representatives from various departments.