10 Lakh+ Devotees: CM Sukhu Hails HP Police for Seamless Navratri Darshan
Over 10.25 lakh devotees visited Himachal's Shakti Peeths during Navratri. CM Sukhu congratulated HP Police for ensuring a smooth pilgrimage.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Himachal Pradesh Police for their exceptional role in managing the massive influx of pilgrims during the Ashwin Navratri festivities. Between October 11 and 19, a staggering 10,25,726 devotees visited seven of the state's most prominent Shakti Peeths and temples, and the police ensured their journey remained safe, peaceful, and smooth.
A Massive Footfall Across Sacred Shrines
The nine-day spiritual celebration saw an enormous gathering of faith. According to official records, alongside the 10.25 lakh devotees, approximately 1,04,520 vehicles navigated the state's roads to reach the shrines. The distribution of visitors across the seven major temples highlights the immense scale of the operation:
- Shri Naina Devi Ji: 3,95,226 devotees (Highest footfall)
- Shri Jawalamukhi Ji: 1,80,000 devotees
- Shri Chintpurni Ji: 1,39,000 devotees
- Shri Bala Sundri Ji, Trilokpur: 1,06,600 devotees
- Shri Chamunda Devi Ji: 70,500 devotees
- Shri Brijeshwari Devi Ji: 69,400 devotees
- Shri Baglamukhi Ji: 65,000 devotees
Overcoming Geographical Challenges
Managing such a vast number of people in the hilly terrain of Himachal Pradesh is no small feat. With narrow approach roads and limited parking facilities, the risk of congestion and chaos was high. However, the Chief Minister noted that meticulous planning and continuous supervision turned a potential logistical nightmare into a hassle-free experience.
The Himachal Pradesh Police implemented comprehensive strategies for:
- Crowd management and queue regulation
- Traffic control to prevent bottlenecks on mountain roads
- Strategic parking arrangements
- Overall public safety and security
Coordinated Effort and Dedication
CM Sukhu emphasized that ensuring the convenience of pilgrims is a primary responsibility of the State Government. He lauded the professionalism of the police personnel, many of whom worked grueling hours to ensure devotees could offer their prayers without unnecessary inconvenience.
The success of the operation was not the result of a single agency but a coordinated effort involving:
- The Himachal Pradesh Police and district administrations
- Temple trusts and authorities
- Home Guards and other supporting agencies
- Local residents and volunteers
Commitment to Public Safety
In a move to further enhance public safety, the Chief Minister urged citizens and tourists to make use of ERSS-112, the state's round-the-clock emergency helpline, for any immediate police, fire, or ambulance assistance.
Responding to the praise, Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Tewari, IPS, expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister. He stated that such recognition serves as a powerful motivator for the force to continue serving the public with sensitivity and professionalism. The DGP also commended the district police chiefs and supervisory officers for their leadership on the ground, reiterating the department's commitment to the safety of every tourist and pilgrim visiting the state.