Pithoragarh, November 21, 2024: The ongoing Territorial Army Bharti Rally in Pithoragarh has been marked by chaos, overcrowding, and logistical challenges, raising concerns about crowd management and adequate facilities for the participating youth. Over 25,000 aspirants from across various states have arrived in the town since the rally began on November 12.
First-Day Chaos Highlights Management Flaws
On the rally’s first day, nearly 20,000 aspirants from Uttar Pradesh thronged the recruitment site, leading to unruly scenes. The rush to enter the venue caused a stampede-like situation, resulting in the army’s entrance gate being damaged. Police and army personnel had to resort to mild force to control the crowd. Despite efforts to manage the situation, two candidates sustained injuries during the commotion.
Over 11,000 youth left without participating in the selection process due to the mismanagement, highlighting the lack of preparedness to handle such a large influx. The following day saw better crowd control measures, with aspirants being divided into groups and allowed entry in phases, but questions remain about the rally’s organizational efficiency.
Strain on Local Resources
The influx of aspirants has placed a significant burden on local resources. Accommodation and food arrangements were made by local organizations and residents, including retired soldiers and NGOs, but the sheer volume of candidates has stretched these resources thin. The administration had to close 19 schools to provide temporary lodging for the aspirants, disrupting the local education system.
While some residents and organizations, such as the Former Soldiers’ Association and local NGOs, went above and beyond to provide free meals, accommodation, and bonfires to shield candidates from the cold, these efforts underscore the state’s unpreparedness for such large-scale events.
Also Read This – Subsidy Delay Under PMEGP Leaves Uttarakhand Youth Struggling with Loan Burdens
Transportation Challenges
A total of 677 vehicles, including 295 buses and 322 taxis, were deployed to transport candidates from Tanakpur to Pithoragarh and within the town. Temporary bus depots were set up to facilitate movement, but delays and overcrowding persisted. Aspirants complained about the lack of timely transport and the long waiting hours.
Impact on the Community
Local residents have shown remarkable hospitality, with several offering their homes to shelter aspirants. However, the disruptions caused by the rally, including road congestion, school closures, and strain on local utilities, have raised concerns about the rally’s long-term impact on the town.
Conclusion
While the rally aims to provide employment opportunities and serve national interests, the poor planning and execution have led to significant inconveniences for both participants and the local community. The administration must address these gaps to ensure a smoother process in future recruitment drives.