Devotees start pouring in Haridwar as Kanwar Yatra begins

Four crore Kanwariyas expected in Haridwar, Rishikesh

The Kanwar Yatra began on the first day of the Hindu month of Shravan on Thursday amid tight security arrangements with Shiva devotees reaching Haridwar in large numbers to fetch the waters of the Ganga.

The Kanwar Yatra is taking place after a gap of two years due to Covid-19 and the authorities hope that at least four crore Kanwariyas will come to Haridwar and neighbouring Rishikesh to collect the waters of the holy river during the nearly fortnight-long fair.

All arrangements have been made for the yatra and police are committed for making it a success, Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar said.

When asked if the recent rise in Covid infections will affect it, Mr. Kumar said the normal protocol in view of the pandemic is still in place but there will be no special restrictions.

Also read | U.P. govt taking measures to prohibit sale of meat in open on Kanwar Yatra routes

"All activities have been opened up. The Char Dham Yatra is also going on. There are no restrictions anywhere. We think people should take necessary precautions themselves and participate in the pilgrimage," the DGP said.

He also appealed to devotees to register on policecitizenportal.uk.in/Kanwar for their own convenience although it is not mandatory.