Authorities have started preparing well in advance to keep the 2026 Kanwar Yatra safe and orderly. A key meeting in Meerut brought together senior officials from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Uttarakhand and Rajasthan to work out a detailed action plan for the pilgrimage. On the DGP's instructions, a set of strict arrangements has been finalised for the entire route, covering everything from security to facilities for devotees.
Meat and liquor shops shut, drones and helicopters on watch
The meeting decided that meat and liquor shops along the entire Kanwar route will remain completely closed during the yatra. To leave no gaps in security, the route will be monitored using helicopters, drones and CCTV cameras, so that any unusual activity can be spotted and acted on immediately.
Heavy vehicles banned, a dedicated lane for Kanwariyas
Heavy vehicles will be barred entirely from entering urban areas during the yatra, cutting the risk of accidents in crowded stretches. One lane on the road will be reserved exclusively for Kanwariyas, while the other lane will be kept open for small vehicles, ensuring that regular traffic movement is not completely disrupted.
Food checks at camps, and new DJ rules
Officials have ordered regular checks on food quality at Kanwar seva camps to make sure devotees are not served poor or adulterated food. DJ systems accompanying the yatra must not exceed 75 decibels in sound, and their height has been capped at 12 feet. Strict instructions have also been issued against racing during the Dak Kanwar, aimed at preventing accidents caused by high speed.
Security agencies to stay fully active
Dog squads, bomb disposal teams, the IB, the intelligence department and LIU teams will all remain active through the yatra so that any threat can be dealt with before it escalates, adding another layer of vigilance across the entire route.
Fixed standards for camps and other facilities
Camps being set up for Kanwariyas have been ordered to be built strictly to the fixed standards laid down by authorities. Officials have also been told to complete lighting, water drainage and other essential facilities at every point along the route within a set time frame. If a devotee's Kanwar breaks for any reason, instructions have been given to immediately provide them with Ganga water so that their pilgrimage is not interrupted.
