SRINAGAR: More than 5,000 people, mostly members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, started their journey from Jammu’s Nagrota for the annual Kheer Bhawani mela in Kashmir amid tight security, on June 12.
Foolproof security arrangements have been put in place for pilgrims intending to visit Mata Kherbhawani in Tulmulla area of Central Kahsmirs Ganderbal district.
Speaking with itv network reporter senior superintendent of police Ganderbal Sandeep Gupta said that all routes have been secured for the safety of pilgrims who intend to visit Mata Kherbhawani temple here.
He said the security arrangements have been put in place keeping in view recent terror attacks in Jammu region and that they have studied the modus operandi of terrorists very well.
“We assure pilgrims that their safety is of most importance for us. They shouldn’t feel any threat and should visit the Mata Kherbhawani temple without any fear as we are here for their safety and security,” he said.
Jammu Srinagar route are covered by border security forces and the Indian Army have also set up temporary posts at different locations for the safety and security of devotees visiting the Mata Kherbhawani Temple located at Tulmullah Ganderbal.
The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, celebrated on Zeisht Ashtami, will be held on June 14 at the shrines of Tulmulla in Ganderbal, Tikker in Kupwara, Laktipora Aishmuqam in Anantnag, Mata Tripursundri Devsar in Kulgam, and Mata Kheerbhawani Manzgam also in Kulgam.
This year, an estimated 80,000 migrant Kashmiri Pandits from various parts of India and abroad are expected to visit the five renowned temples in the Valley during the annual fair.