Narmada: After thousands of pilgrims faced difficulties due to the shortage of boats, water, food, and other facilities during the Uttarvahini Narmada Parikrama in the Narmada district of Central Gujarat last weekend, the district administration today held a meeting regarding the anticipated rush over the coming weekend and the preparations by the district administration for the smooth pilgrimage of the devotees.

Narmada District Collector S.K. Modi told media that, “In the coming days, from April 17 to 19, a large number of devotees are expected to arrive. Keeping this in mind, an important meeting was held with officers, NGOs, and trustees of the temples located on the Ghat. Clear decisions were made to manage the arrangements for the devotees.”

“As part of these preparations, a number of tents will be installed, and existing tents will be extended. Specifically, the facilities for boarding, lodging, and dining will be expanded along the 7 km route with the help of NGOs. Earlier, these facilities were available at four ghats, and they will continue to operate as usual. Fifty boats are already operational, and 20 more have been added, bringing the total to 70 boats. For these boats, earlier there were 14 jetties, and their number is being increased to 25. The police force has also been increased three times. Revenue officers from different districts, as well as NGOs, are volunteering to assist, he added.

The IAS officer further said that, “Regarding parking, locals have taken a proactive approach and opened their farms and wadis for parking. Tea and snack facilities have also been set up at the parking areas.” DeshGujarat