The Jammu and Kashmir Police have significantly bolstered security arrangements in Ganderbal district ahead of the annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela, officials confirmed on Sunday. The religious congregation, which draws thousands of devotees from across the region, is scheduled to take place on Monday at the Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla.
Area Domination Exercises Conducted
According to a police spokesman, the security forces carried out area domination exercises in and around the Kheer Bhawani Temple premises as part of the comprehensive security preparedness. The exercises were designed to ensure a secure environment for all devotees, local residents, and visitors attending the annual mela. The police emphasized that maintaining public safety and order remains the top priority during the event.
Senior Officials Conduct Security Review
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone VK Birdi, along with Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Central Kashmir Range Rajiv Omprakash Pande and Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ganderbal Sudhanshu Dhama, visited the temple on Sunday. The senior officials conducted a thorough review of the security arrangements being implemented for the smooth and peaceful conduct of Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela-2026.
The IGP carried out a detailed assessment of the security grid and arrangements both within and outside the temple premises. The review focused on access control measures, crowd management protocols, and the availability of designated parking facilities. Birdi stressed the importance of maintaining the highest standards of vigilance, coordination, and preparedness among all security personnel.
Directions for Foolproof Security
During the inspection, IGP Birdi issued specific directives to officers to ensure foolproof security arrangements. He emphasized the need for effective traffic management to facilitate smooth movement of devotees and timely facilitation of all necessary services at the temple and adjoining areas. The police spokesman reiterated the commitment to providing a safe and hassle-free experience for all participants.
The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela is a significant religious event in the Kashmir Valley, attracting pilgrims from various parts of India. The temple, dedicated to the goddess Kheer Bhawani, is considered a sacred site by Kashmiri Pandits and other devotees. The heightened security measures reflect the authorities’ focus on preventing any untoward incidents during the gathering.
