Coffee table books, gift hampers for Mansarovar pilgrims
: The Kailash Mansarovar Bhawan in Indirapuram is gearing up to welcome the first batch of pilgrims set to arrive on Wednesday. The Mansarovar Yatra is resuming after a five-year hiatus following the Covid-19 pandemic, and the district administration aims to provide a smooth and memorable experience for the devotees.
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This will be the first time that the Bhawan will be utilised for its official purpose since its construction in 2020. The inaugural batch of 50 devotees from across the country is expected to arrive sometime after noon on Wednesday. A total of 750 pilgrims will arrive in batches of 50 until Aug 25.
ADM (city) Vikas Kashyap told TOI that each pilgrim will receive a thoughtful hamper containing a tulsi rudraksh mala, a bag, cap, umbrella, tracksuit, t-shirt, and a memento.
"It is an effort from us to make the journey as smooth and memorable as possible," Kashyap said.
Additionally, pilgrims will also be presented with a coffee table book featuring literature about Kailash Mansarovar.
Each batch of pilgrims will stay at the Bhawan for four days, during which they will undergo document verification, medical examination, and complete other formalities at the Ministry of External Affairs office in Delhi.
Buses arranged by Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam and Sikkim Tourism Development Cooperation (STDC), responsible for logistical arrangements on the Indian side, will transport pilgrims to and from the Bhawan.
District magistrate Deepak Meena said that fire safety mock drills, electrical safety NOC, and other necessary safety measures have been put in place ahead of arrivals.
"We have instructed officials to ensure that lights, air-conditioners, and all other electrical fittings are fully functional.
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Food and first-aid arrangements are also being made to ensure their stay is comfortable and safe," the DM said.
The send-off for the first batch of pilgrims is scheduled for June 15, he added.
Essential facilities such as a travel booking desk and a money exchange kiosk have also been set up at the bhawan for the pilgrims' convenience. Signages have been prominently displayed for easy navigation, and yoga sessions will also be offered at the Bhawan.
Ghaziabad chief medical officer (CMO) Dr Akhilesh Mohan said that face masks and sanitisers will also be readily available for the pilgrims. "The health department is ensuring that medical supplies at the bhawan are sufficient and will also be following Covid safety protocols for the pilgrims. If we see any symptomatic person, Covid testing will be done. However, unnecessary testing will be avoided," he said.
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