MP: What will be special for lakhs of pilgrims at this year’s Chitrakoot Diwali Mela?
Satna: Chitrakoot is preparing for its annual Diwali Mela, scheduled to be held from November 6 to 10. The administrations of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh are working in coordination to ensure that the pilgrimage is safe, smooth, and comfortable for all visitors.
In anticipation of large crowds, the fairgrounds have been divided into distinct zones. Medical teams and security personnel will be deployed at key locations. Over 145 acres of land across 13 designated sites will be available for vehicle parking. To assist pilgrims, 'lost and found' centers, temporary toilets, drinking water tankers, and shelters have been set up.
A total of 125 water tankers will provide a supply of drinking water, while 30 water storage tanks will be placed along the parikrama (circumambulation) route. To maintain cleanliness, more than 350 sanitation workers will be deployed, and regular waste collection will be carried out. LED screens will be installed at five locations to broadcast live coverage of the festivities.
Cultural programs and drone show to mesmerize visitors
Visitors will be able to enjoy decorative lighting, welcome arches, cultural programs, and a drone show near Ramghat. Fire tenders will be stationed at sensitive locations, and barricades will be set up to manage crowd movement.
The administration has been instructed to ensure that all necessary arrangements are completed before the fair begins. However, pilgrims should note that, as a safety precaution due to heavy rainfall and the risk of rockfalls, both 'Gupt Godavari' caves are currently closed.