Dehradun/Haridwar, July 4 -- Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday chaired a review meeting with public representatives, officials, and stakeholders to assess preparations for the Kanwar Yatra and directed officials to monitor traffic using drones and artificial intelligence (AI), strengthen all arrangements and ensure close coordination among departments for the smooth and successful conduct of the pilgrimage. He said the state government is prepared to welcome the kanwariyas during the yatra scheduled to start on July 11. "During the Kanwar Yatra, traffic should be monitored with the help of drones and AI technology," the CM said. He reiterated that all dhabas, eateries and hotels along the yatra route should comply with food safety standards and prominently display valid food licenses and rate lists. "Strict adherence to travel regulations and hygiene protocols should be maintained throughout the pilgrimage," he said. Addressing a media briefing after the meeting, Dhami said, "It should be ensured that sentiments of Kanwariyas aren't hurt with instances like 'thook jihad' and adulteration in food items." He said, "Last year, some incidents of thook jihad as well as adulterated food being served during the Kanwar fair came into light. We have directed the officials to ensure sentiments of kanwariyas aren't hurt. Food safety, police, and Mela officials have been directed to ensure hygiene, cleanliness and sanitation during the yatra." "We urge Kanwariyas to strictly follow the rules laid down by our sages for the Kanwar pilgrimage," said Dhami. He added, "Devotees should adhere to guidelines such as maintaining the prescribed height limit for decorated Kanwars, keeping DJ sound levels within permissible limits, and following all instructions issued by the Mela administration. We will welcome the Kanwariyas by showering flower petals on them from a helicopter." Dhami said additional precautions must be taken in landslide-prone zones along the yatra route in Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal and Uttarkashi districts. He also directed the police officials to take strict action against those spreading misinformation during the Kanwar Yatra. "For this purpose, continuous monitoring of social media platforms must be carried out," he said. "All preparations for the Kanwar Yatra should be made on a large scale so that the experience and infrastructure can also be utilised during the upcoming Kumbh Mela [in Haridwar in 2027]," Dhami said....