Hapur Administration Boosts Security for Kanwar Yatra; Declares School Holidays

Uttar Pradesh's Hapur authorities enhanced security measures for the Kanwar Yatra with CCTV cameras and security forces. Schools will be closed from July 26 to August 2. Haridwar sees an influx of pilgrims. The Supreme Court maintained its stay on mandatory display of owners' names at food outlets.

The Hapur administration in Uttar Pradesh has bolstered security along the Kanwar Yatra route by installing CCTV cameras and deploying security forces. Vineet Bhatnagar, Additional SP, Hapur, informed ANI that the route has been divided into five zones, 17 sectors, and 39 sub-sectors, with forces operating in two shifts. Traffic has also been restructured, and multiple control rooms set up.

In a notable move, the Hapur administration has declared holidays for all government and private schools from July 26 to August 2 to facilitate the Yatra. District Magistrate Prerna Sharma explained that light vehicles would also be diverted from July 26, ensuring smooth travel during this period.

The Kanwar Yatra, which commenced on July 22 with the onset of 'Sawan', has seen a massive influx of devotees, particularly in Haridwar. The region is now divided into 14 superzones, 35 zones, and 132 sectors for efficient management.

This period of worship, fasting, and pilgrimage, observed between July and August, is significant for devotees. Simultaneously, the Supreme Court has extended its interim order staying directives from some states requiring eateries along the Yatra route to display owners' names. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi argued that the Central Law Food and Safety Standards Act, 2006, mandates such displays, but the court maintained that they should not be forced.

(With inputs from agencies.)