MP Harsh Mahajan Criticizes Govt’s Lapses in Manimahesh Yatra Arrangements
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Shimla, Sept 5: Rajya Sabha MP and former minister Harsh Mahajan has strongly criticized the Himachal Pradesh government for failing to make adequate arrangements for the sacred Manimahesh Yatra, despite his prior warnings.
Mahajan revealed that on December 31, 2024, he had written to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, highlighting the challenges faced by devotees during the pilgrimage and suggesting concrete measures. He said, “If the government had acted on my suggestions in time, devotees would not have had to face today’s hardships and mismanagement.”
He pointed out that due to narrow roads between Bharmour and Baggá, pilgrims are often stuck in traffic jams lasting 14–15 hours. Similarly, the foot track beyond Hadsar becomes overcrowded and unsafe, leading to frequent breakdowns in administrative control.
In his letter, Mahajan had urged the government to:
- Develop multi-level parking facilities and mark parking spaces between Bharmour and Hadsar.
- Construct sarai bhavans, rain baseras and public amenities like toilets.
- Provide employment opportunities to local youth through better pilgrimage management.
- Establish a Shrine Board for systematic management of the pilgrimage.
He expressed regret that no action was taken despite his written appeal, causing inconvenience to both local residents and pilgrims. Mahajan has once again requested the state government to take concrete measures well in advance to ensure smooth and safe conduct of the Manimahesh Yatra 2026.
