In response to the recent stampede incident at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi temple, IG Garhwal Rajeev Swaroop has issued strict instructions for crowd control and safety at religious sites across Uttarakhand. Authorities have been directed to conduct security audits every 15 days and organize regular mock drills to identify and fix shortcomings in management systems.
Each temple must now prepare a crowd-specific SOP based on peak hours and expected footfall. At least one sub-inspector will be mandatorily deployed under the leadership of police personnel to ensure accountability at all religious sites. Intelligence units will also be activated alongside police forces to enhance vigilance.
District administrations have been asked to coordinate with temple committees and ensure proper crowd flow, fire safety, and electrical arrangements. Fire extinguishers and related equipment must be installed, and fire service personnel should be deployed to manage them. Power lines and equipment will now be the responsibility of relevant departmental officers to prevent electrical hazards.
Authorities emphasized that issues identified during mock drills must be rectified immediately, and all departments must work in close coordination to prevent future emergencies.
