Today, June 22, witnessed a grand congregation of devotees at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati as the annual Ambubachi Mela commenced. This revered festival, drawing pilgrims from across the nation, marks a period of intense spiritual fervor and religious significance.
Initiation and Temple Closure
The festivities began with the Pravritti ritual, marking the commencement of the Ambubachi Mela. Following tradition, the temple doors will remain closed for three days as part of the Niyam Seva ritual, symbolizing the annual menstruation period of Goddess Kamakhya. During this period, worshippers are respectfully barred from entering the temple premises. The temple will reopen on the morning of June 26, marking the conclusion of the ritual with the Nivritti ceremony.
Traffic Management Ensures Devotees’ Safety
To manage the substantial influx of pilgrims and ensure their safety during this auspicious occasion, stringent traffic restrictions have been enforced by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) in Guwahati. Effective from 5 AM on June 22 until midnight on June 25, these measures aim to streamline vehicular movement and minimize congestion around the temple vicinity:
- Access Restrictions: Only vehicles authorized by the District Administration with specific passes are permitted beyond Maa Kamakhya Foot Hill towards the temple. Exceptions include emergency vehicles and school buses, ensuring essential services are not disrupted.
- Parking Arrangements: Vehicles with designated passes can travel up to Bongshi Bagan from Pandu Cabin Tiniali. Vehicles arriving from Jalukbari and Bharalumukh have designated drop-off points and parking areas specified to prevent overcrowding and maintain order.
- Public Transport Adjustments: City buses from Jalukbari and Bharalumukh have been rerouted to ensure smooth passenger drop-offs at designated points, contributing to traffic flow management and devotee convenience.
- Prohibited Areas: Parking under Nilachal Flyover is strictly prohibited to prevent congestion and ensure emergency access routes remain clear.
These comprehensive measures are crucial to facilitating a safe and orderly Ambubachi Mela, enabling devotees to participate in the religious observances with reverence and minimal disruption. The meticulous planning reflects the authorities’ commitment to preserving the sanctity of the festival while ensuring public safety and convenience.
