Mandi Prepares for International Shivratri Fair with Enhanced Arrangements.
Shimla:
As the International Shivratri Fair approaches, authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and convenience of attendees. According to Mandi SP Sakshi Verma, the town has been divided into six sectors to effectively manage law and order and traffic during the event.
Sector Division:
- Paddal Mela Ground
- Devta Protection
- City Core Area
- Khaliyar to Bidrawani to Malori Tunnel
- Chakkar Near Hotel Valley View to Pulghrat via Malori Tunnel and Gutkar; Pulghrat to Bhiuli including Kangni Helipad & Gurudwara
- Night Cultural Programme at Seri Manch
Security and Traffic Management:
A robust security framework has been established, comprising 8 Gazetted Officers, 800 Non-Gazetted Officers Grade-I & II, and Home Guards. To bolster surveillance, 55 temporary CCTV cameras are being installed, supplementing the existing 275 cameras in Mandi Town.
Traffic management plans include one-way routes such as Gandhi Chowk towards Victoria Bridge via Chohatta Bazaar and Mahamrityunjay Temple towards ITI Chowk via New Suketi Bridge. Temporary bus stops have been designated near the old Suketi Bridge and the MC parking adjacent to Sukodi Bridge. Additionally, heavy vehicles and goods carriers (excluding buses) are restricted from entering the core area of Mandi town between 12:00 Midnight and 06:00 a.m.
Parking Facilities:
Several parking areas have been designated to accommodate vehicles:
- Victoria Bridge (River Bed): 200 LMV & 50 HMV
- Bhima Kali Temple: 80 LMV
- Home Guard Office Bhiuli: 30 LMV
- Near Temporary Bus Stand up to Pulgharat on NH: 100 light & medium vehicles
- Gymkhana Club: 50 LMV
- MC Parking Sakodi Bridge: 150 LMV
- Along Fourlane Malori: 50 HMV
- Along Fourlane Bindravani: 75 HMV
Additional Measures:
A dedicated Control Room has been established at Paddal Ground to assist the public and handle “Lost & Found” cases. Special cells have been formed to monitor and take action against miscreants involved in activities such as eve-teasing, chain-snatching, and theft. The Detection Cell will focus on drug peddlers and excise cases during the fair.
These initiatives aim to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants during the International Shivratri Fair.
