Guwahati: The district administration has laid out new guidelines for the upcoming Ambubachi Mela 2024 at the Kamakhya Temple. They have also issued guidelines for organizations providing free food and water during the festival.
A meeting led by Additional District Commissioner Biswajit Saikia clarified that institutions must obtain permission from the district administration before setting up food or water distribution points. Food and Civil Supplies Department officials will be present at designated spots to ensure smooth distribution.
This comes after a request from the Basishta Temple authorities, who see devotees seeking shelter within their premises during the festival. They have asked the organisations to distribute food at Basistha Temple as well. Traditionally, many organizations offer free food and water to devotees visiting the Ambubachi Mela.
The authorities have also eliminated the option of any VIP entry into the Kamakhya Temple complex during the festival. Anyone willing to visit the temple will have to follow the same rules as the general public. Movement of vehicles and ferries has also been restricted during the duration of the festival. Camps for housing the devotees are expected to be set up at Pandu Port and near the Kamakhaya Railway Station this year.
The Inspector of Schools, Dipika Choudhury, has also issued a directive to all schools in the Kamrup Metro District advising no examinations to be scheduled from June 22 to 26, 2024. The notification also makes way for rescheduling exams if any during the days of the festival.
The Ambubachi Mela 2024 will be held from June 22nd to June 26th. As usual, the Kamakhya Temple itself will be closed during this period, with religious observances taking place. Large crowds of devotees are expected to visit Guwahati for the Mela. And these new guidelines aim to ensure a safe and organized experience for everyone.
