With the onset of Sawan, throngs of devotees are flocking to Jyotirlingas to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Ranked fourth among the twelve Jyotirlingas, Omkareshwar draws increased crowds during the Sawan month. Authorities are gearing up to ensure safety and proper arrangements for the devotees. On regular days, 30,000 to 35,000 devotees visit, but this figure swells to 100,000 to 150,000 during Sawan. On one hand, managing the crowd of millions inside the small sanctum of the main temple is a challenge, while on the other, ensuring the safe bathing of devotees at the unsecured Narmada ghats needs attention.
This Temple is Located in Khandwa District, MP
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is situated on a small hill alongside the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh's Khandwa district. To reach here, crossing the Narmada River is necessary, which poses a significant challenge during the rain. Parking is arranged about 5 km before the temple, requiring devotees to cover a long distance on foot.
Restrictions on Large Vehicles
Superintendent of Police Manoj Rai informed Aaj Tak that weekends, especially Saturdays and Sundays, see higher crowds at Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga. The same scenario is expected every Monday during Sawan. Crowd management is crucial, so comprehensive security arrangements have been made. Around 500 personnel, including two companies of SAF, will be deployed over these three days. A large number of female police will also be on duty. Traffic police have organized parking to avoid inconvenience to pedestrians, and restrictions have been imposed on large vehicles.
Secured Ghats, Water Level to be Controlled by Dam
Special security arrangements have been made at the ghats, with a 20-member SDRF team remaining active. Local boatmen have also been trained. For safety, bathing is prohibited at Kotitirth Ghat, the oldest one. Limited permissions have been given for boating activities, with strict safety instructions for boats. Collector Anup Kumar Singh has directed the Omkareshwar dam management to maintain water levels during the day. Turbines for electricity generation will be operational only at night.
Special Arrangements for Crowd Control
Superintendent Rai emphasized the importance of preventing overcrowding in one area. Aside from Mondays, the largest crowd is expected on the new moon day, August 5, where numbers might swell to 150,000 to 200,000. On this day, there will be no puja or abhisheka in the sanctum. The VVIP darshan arrangements will also be controlled. Security measures are in place for the Kanwar Yatra too.
Enhanced Facilities at Civil Hospital
Chief District Health and Medical Officer Dr. O.P. Jugatavat stated that additional doctors and assistants will be present at the Omkareshwar Civil Hospital. Teams in Sanawad and Khandwa will be on standby for emergencies.
