Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the recent accident caused by a sudden surge of water in the Shakumbhari Devi Siddhpeeth stream area during his visit to Saharanpur. The Chief Minister held a meeting with public representatives and senior administrative officials to assess the situation and direct immediate relief, rehabilitation, and long-term safety measures.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister offered prayers at the revered Baba Bhura Dev Temple and Maa Shakumbhari Devi Temple before reviewing the circumstances surrounding the flash flood incident.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister sought detailed information regarding the loss of life and property caused by the sudden influx of water. He instructed officials to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the financial losses suffered by local shopkeepers and ensure that compensation is provided in accordance with government norms.
Emphasizing the importance of pilgrim safety and convenience, the Chief Minister directed authorities to make every possible arrangement to ensure that devotees visiting the temple do not face unnecessary hardship and are able to continue their religious activities without disruption. Officials informed him that financial assistance has already been provided to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident.
To strengthen safety infrastructure in the area, the Chief Minister ordered the development of a proper parking facility near Baba Bhura Dev Temple. He also instructed officials to install protective boulders on both sides of the stream channel to safeguard people during periods of water accumulation and sudden flow. Stressing the importance of disaster preparedness, he called for timely public warning systems and improved alert mechanisms to minimize risks during emergencies.
The Chief Minister noted that while natural disasters cannot always be prevented, modern technology and effective planning can significantly reduce casualties and damage. He directed officials to ensure that information regarding any loss of life or property during disasters is communicated promptly to the state government so that relief and rescue operations can be launched without delay.
Reviewing the progress of the elevated bridge and road project connecting Baba Bhura Dev Temple to Maa Shakumbhari Devi Temple, the Chief Minister instructed officials to accelerate construction by deploying additional workers. He emphasized that efforts should be made to complete the project before the upcoming Sharadiya Navratri festival and directed that the work must be fully completed by December this year while maintaining strict quality standards and timelines.
Until the bridge is completed, the Chief Minister asked officials to prepare an alternative movement plan for pilgrims and local residents to ensure smooth access through the area. He also directed authorities to channelize the Shakumbhari Devi stream to improve water management and reduce the risk of future flooding incidents.
The review meeting was attended by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Vocational Education and Skill Development Kapil Dev Agarwal, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Industrial Development Jaswant Singh Saini, other public representatives, and senior government and district administration officials.
The Chief Minister’s visit underscored the state government’s commitment to ensuring public safety, strengthening disaster management systems, and enhancing infrastructure for the millions of devotees who visit the Shakumbhari Devi pilgrimage site each year.
