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Over 29k CCTV cameras and 395 drones: UP govt makes elaborate arrangements for the Kanwar Yatra

As many as 66,522 police personnel have been deployed along the route

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Extensive security measures have been put in place to ensure the safe completion of Kanwar Yatra 2025 with an emphasis on advanced monitoring systems and inter-state coordination.

A robust support network including 29,454 CCTV cameras, 395 drones, 1,845 water service centres, 829 medical camps, and 1,222 police assistance centres will be set up along the main Kanwar routes. All sites where camps are to be set up have undergone anti-sabotage checks with CCTV installations. Devotees can access police contact numbers, traffic diversion schemes, and important information through QR codes on advertisements and social media.

A total force of 66,522 personnel has been deployed, comprising 587 gazetted officers, 2,040 inspectors, 13,520 sub-inspectors, 39,965 head constables/constables, plus 10,027 women police personnel. Additionally, 50 companies of Central Police Force/PAC, 1,424 home guards, and specialized units like RAF, QRT, and Anti-Terror Squad have been positioned strategically.

Real-time surveillance will cover all Kanwar routes through CCTV networks and drone monitoring, with live feeds accessible at the headquarters level. Two dedicated eight-member teams shall operate 24/7 – one monitoring social media for misinformation and ensuring factual information dissemination, another coordinating inputs from the electronic media and UP-112 (police helpline).

A WhatsApp group has been created to connect officials from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan for real-time information exchange on route conditions, security arrangements, and crowd control. This will enable an immediate response to misleading information and coordinated traffic management.

For traffic management, electronic signboards and adequate lighting have been installed at major intersections. Alternative routes have been identified for general traffic during restricted periods. Heavy and light vehicles will use separate diversions away from Kanwar routes. Regular rehearsals of barricading and diversion schemes are being conducted.

Rules have also been put in place for Kanwariyas. They must travel on the left side of highways, with camps set up 20 feet from roads.

Local divers are stationed at river banks with proper safety barriers. Special attention is given to women pilgrims' safety with immediate action protocols for any misconduct reports.

Health Department teams with ambulances have been deployed for medical emergencies. Food quality monitoring will ensure safe consumption at roadside establishments with displayed rate lists to prevent overcharging.