Chaitra Navratri Mela from March 19–27 at Jwalamukhi; Over 5 Lakh Pilgrims Expected
Dharamshala, March 18: The Chaitra Navratri Mela will be held from March 19 to March 27 at the famous shrine of Jwalamukhi Temple in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Authorities have completed all necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the mela.
According to officials, more than five lakh devotees from Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are expected to visit the shrine during the nine-day festival to pay obeisance to the Goddess.
Local SDM and Chairman of the Temple Trust Sanjeev Sharma said elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to maintain law and order. Special police force and Home Guards will be deployed to prevent theft and pickpocketing, while an Executive Magistrate will remain on duty round the clock.
The administration has also imposed a ban on carrying firearms, ammunition and other lethal weapons within the jurisdiction of Jawalamukhi revenue tehsil with immediate effect.
To maintain sanitation, the town has been divided into sectors. In addition to regular sanitation staff, special sanitation workers will be deployed. The Health Department has been directed to provide round-the-clock medical facilities and ensure the availability of safe drinking water for pilgrims.
For the convenience of devotees, direct bus services will be operated between Jawalamukhi, Chandigarh and Hoshiarpur. The state Public Relations Department will also set up a reception room and information centre to provide regular updates about the mela.
Meanwhile, similar Navratri fairs will also be held at Brajeshwari Devi Temple and Chamunda Devi Temple in the district.