A massive influx of devotees is anticipated at two of Jharkhand's most revered Shiva temples – Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar and Basukinath temple in Dumka – on Thursday, marking the first day of the New Year. Pilgrims from Jharkhand, Bihar, and West Bengal are converging in large numbers to seek divine blessings for prosperity in the coming year.
Unprecedented Crowds and Elaborate Security Arrangements
Officials estimate that the footfall over the two days surrounding New Year's Day could reach a staggering two lakhs. In anticipation of this huge gathering, the district administration has implemented a comprehensive crowd management plan. Deoghar subdivisional officer (Civil) Ravi Kumar outlined the measures, stating that magistrates have been appointed and CCTV surveillance has been significantly strengthened.
Special traffic control arrangements are in place, with separate entry and exit routes designated at the temple premises to ensure smooth movement and prevent any untoward incidents. Authorities have appealed to devotees to remain calm and proceed in an orderly fashion to avoid chaos.
Revised Darshan Fees and Temple Timings
To manage the expected rush, the Baba Baidyanath Dham temple administration has revised the fee for the ‘Sheeghra Darshan’ (quick darshan) coupon specifically for January 1. While the usual fee is Rs 300, it has been doubled to Rs 600 for New Year’s Day. However, the administration has confirmed that the general queue system for darshan will continue to operate as usual without any change in procedure or cost.
The temple will open its doors to general devotees from 5 am on Thursday. Similar crowd management protocols and arrangements have been put in place at the Basukinath Dham temple in Dumka, another major Shiva shrine expecting significant attendance.
Impact on Temple Town and Tourist Spots
The surge in pilgrims is not confined to the temple complexes alone. Popular tourist destinations and key areas within the temple town, such as B Ed College Road, Nehru Park, Tower Chowk, and Shivganga, are also bracing for heavy footfall throughout the day. Local businesses and the hospitality sector are anticipating a busy period as devotees explore the town after their darshan.
The coordinated efforts by the temple trusts and civil authorities highlight the importance of these shrines as pivotal spiritual centers in the region, especially during significant calendar events like the New Year.
