Uttarkashi: The traditional Magh Mela (Badaahaat Ku Tholu) commenced in Uttarkashi district on January 14, 2025, with thorough planning and management. The responsibility for the fair was entrusted by the Superintendent of Police, Uttarkashi, to Inspector Dinesh Kumar, who sought the blessings of Lord Vishwanath and prepared a comprehensive strategy in consultation with local residents and external forces. Visitors were guided with polite behavior, and every effort was made to address their concerns. A geographical study of the fair area was conducted, routes for visitors from local and distant regions were charted, and traffic arrangements were planned to ensure smooth vehicular movement.
Under Inspector Dinesh Kumar’s foresight and the tireless efforts of the entire force, the fair successfully concluded on January 21, 2025. The fair’s success drew praise from local residents, the District Panchayat of Uttarkashi, and senior officials.
Key Arrangements and Security Measures:
1. Fair Division and Monitoring:
The fair area was divided into four sectors, each managed by a sector officer. Critical locations and crowded areas were monitored through 30 CCTV cameras, controlled from the Magh Mela Office. For the first time, drones were deployed for surveillance.
2. Missing Persons and Lost Items:
A total of 36 children separated from their families were safely reunited. Lost items, including 28 mobile phones, 12 wallets, and documents, were recovered with the help of CCTV cameras and returned to their owners.
3. Emergency Preparedness:
SDRF teams were deployed along the Bhagirathi River and crowded ghats to prevent untoward incidents. Fire tenders equipped with necessary tools were stationed in advance. Sensitive locations like the Manikarnika Ghat suspension bridge were converted into one-way paths using ropes and barriers, ensuring safe pedestrian movement. Additional police forces were deployed to manage crowds in critical areas like Joshiara and the main market.
4. Traffic and Crowd Management:
Strict traffic restrictions were imposed at Vishwanath Temple Chowk and other entry points, earning public appreciation. Entry and exit points of the Ramlila Ground were manned to control crowds, and fair rides such as the Big Wheel, Dragon Swing, and Breakdance Ride were supervised with adequate police deployment.
5. Night Patrolling and Theft Prevention: Night patrol teams were formed to prevent theft, sharing their locations and updates via the Magh Fair WhatsApp group. Covert teams monitored pickpockets, suspicious individuals, and troublemakers, ensuring a crime-free event.
6. Cultural Events and Vendor Verification:
Separate seating arrangements were made for men and women at the fair pavilion to prevent harassment incidents. Additional police were stationed during evening cultural programs, ensuring their smooth execution. All vendors, hotel and food stall workers, and ride operators underwent thorough verification.
7. Awareness Programs:
The Dharasu Police Team conducted awareness programs on cybercrime, women’s safety, and drug abuse. Informative videos about the harmful effects of drugs were also shown to visitors.
The meticulous planning, efficient security arrangements, and dedicated efforts of Inspector Dinesh Kumar and his team ensured the successful and peaceful completion of the Magh Fair 2025, leaving a lasting impression on the attendees.
