GUWAHATI: The annual Ambubachi Mela at the Kamakhya temple, situated atop Nilachal Hill begins today with extensive security measures and arrangements.
The civil and police authorities of Kamrup Metropolitan district have completed all preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of the event, which attracts a large number of devotees and visitors from across the country.
The doors of the Kamakhya temple will be closed, and worship will be halted from the 'pravritti' on the night of June 22-23. After the 'nivritti' on June 26, devotees will be permitted to enter the temple premises once again. The closure of the temple doors symbolises the belief that it coincides with the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya.
The Ambubachi Mela, held during this period, is one of the major tourist attractions in the state, drawing approximately 2 lakh visitors during the festival.
To accommodate the devotees, two temporary camps have been established at Pandu Port and Kamakhya Railway Station, as announced by Kamrup Metropolitan District Commissioner Pallav Gopal Jha and Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah during a joint press conference on Tuesday.
Adequate police security has been arranged at the camps, in and around Nilachal Hill, and its vicinity. Entry of vehicles to Nilachal Hill has been restricted, and visiting hours for the temple premises have been fixed from 5 AM to 9 PM during the mela. The provision of drinking water facilities, rest sheds, and medical booths has been made available for the convenience of the devotees, the officials added.
In addition to the police personnel, volunteers, private security guards, and other individuals have been engaged to ensure the smooth conduct of the Mela without any inconvenience. The authorities are committed to providing a safe and enriching experience to all participants and visitors throughout the Ambubachi Mela.
