Anti-Encroachment Drive Begins Ahead of Shravani Fair; Temporary Shops Removed Near Garibnath Temple
Muzaffarpur: In preparation for the Shravani Fair 2026, the Muzaffarpur Municipal Corporation has launched a major anti-encroachment drive to ensure smooth movement and safety for devotees. On the first day of the campaign, officials cleared illegal encroachments around Garibnath Temple and nearby market areas by removing several temporary shops, roadside stalls, and unauthorized structures. The sudden action created panic among shopkeepers, while authorities warned that the drive would continue until the conclusion of the fair.
Special Drive Ahead of the Shravani Fair
Every year during the holy month of Shravan, Garibnath Temple attracts lakhs of devotees who visit to offer holy water (Jalabhishek) to Lord Shiva. The heavy influx of pilgrims often leads to severe congestion around the temple premises.
To ensure smooth crowd management, better traffic flow, and public safety, the Municipal Corporation had planned a special anti-encroachment campaign well before the commencement of the fair.
According to officials, temporary stalls and roadside vendors had occupied significant portions of roads and footpaths leading to the temple, causing inconvenience to both pedestrians and vehicles.
Encroachments Cleared Around Garibnath Temple
Municipal Corporation officials, accompanied by police personnel and magistrates, launched the operation early in the morning. The drive covered the main approach roads to Garibnath Temple, nearby lanes, and adjoining market areas.
During the operation, authorities removed temporary sheds, bamboo structures, roadside kiosks, pushcarts, and other unauthorized constructions. In several locations, earth-moving machines were also used to clear the encroachments.
Officials instructed shopkeepers not to occupy roads or footpaths again, warning that strict legal action would be taken against repeat violators.
Shopkeepers Caught Off Guard
The sudden operation caused panic among local vendors and shopkeepers. Many hurriedly removed their goods to avoid confiscation, while others expressed dissatisfaction, claiming they had not been given enough time to relocate.
However, Municipal Corporation officials stated that multiple notices had already been issued in advance, asking encroachers to remove their illegal structures voluntarily. Since many failed to comply, the administration proceeded with the demolition drive.
Authorities Issue Strict Warning
Municipal officials made it clear that no unauthorized encroachment would be tolerated during the Shravani Fair. Anyone found reoccupying cleared spaces would face strict legal action.
The administration also clarified that the campaign would not remain limited to the Garibnath Temple area but would cover all major routes leading to the temple, including roads from the railway station, bus stand, and key intersections.
Devotees' Convenience is the Top Priority
According to the Municipal Corporation, the primary objective of the drive is to provide a safe and hassle-free experience for the lakhs of devotees expected during the fair.
Officials said that encroachments often create traffic bottlenecks and increase the risk of stampedes during peak pilgrimage days. By clearing roads and widening pedestrian pathways, authorities hope to ensure smoother movement for pilgrims.
Police Deployed During the Operation
A large contingent of police personnel was deployed throughout the operation to maintain law and order. The anti-encroachment drive was carried out peacefully under the supervision of administrative officers.
Although minor arguments occurred between some shopkeepers and officials, the situation remained under control.
Campaign to Continue Until the Fair Ends
The Municipal Corporation announced that the anti-encroachment campaign would continue throughout the duration of the Shravani Fair. Daily inspections will be conducted, and any fresh encroachments will be removed immediately.
Besides clearing illegal structures, the civic body is also focusing on improving sanitation, street lighting, drinking water facilities, public toilets, and waste management across the fair area.
Residents Support the Initiative
Many local residents welcomed the administration's action, saying that encroachments around the temple had been a long-standing problem, leading to severe traffic congestion every year during the Shravani Fair.
Citizens believe that regular enforcement of anti-encroachment measures could significantly improve traffic management and public convenience throughout the city.
Shopkeepers Seek Alternative Arrangements
Meanwhile, affected vendors have urged the administration to provide alternative spaces for conducting their business. They argued that many families depend entirely on these roadside shops for their livelihood.
Some shopkeepers said they were willing to cooperate with the administration but requested proper rehabilitation measures before being permanently removed.
Preparations for the Shravani Fair Intensify
The district administration and Municipal Corporation have accelerated preparations for the annual fair. Security arrangements are being strengthened with the installation of CCTV cameras and deployment of additional police personnel.
Authorities are also setting up medical camps, drinking water kiosks, help centers, and implementing a special traffic management plan to ensure the smooth movement of pilgrims.
The anti-encroachment drive launched by the Muzaffarpur Municipal Corporation ahead of the Shravani Fair is part of a broader effort to ensure a safe, organized, and convenient pilgrimage experience. While the operation has affected several roadside vendors, officials maintain that public safety and the smooth movement of devotees remain their highest priorities. The campaign will continue until the fair concludes, with authorities committed to maintaining orderly roads, effective crowd management, and improved civic amenities throughout the festival period.
