The authorities have deployed additional police personnel and enhanced surveillance as the devotees are flocking to Varanasi to usher in 2026 by seeking Baba Kashi Vishwanath’s blessings.
Bhavna, a resident of Gujarat, said they spent time on the ghats on Tuesday evening and were hoping to see the rising sun.
Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal said security and traffic arrangements have been made at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area for the rush. “Devotees are requested to cooperate with the police by following the rules. To ensure orderly and safe darshan, barricades have been erected in the temple complex and on the main roads to maintain queue-based movement and prevent chaos.”
Agarwal and a bomb disposal team conducted thorough checking of suspicious objects in sensitive areas. Overloading of boats has been prohibited, and strict instructions have been given to the officials to ensure that all passengers wear life jackets.
The area from Maidagin to Godaulia has been declared a no-vehicle zone. Only pedestrian movement will be allowed, and even police vehicles will be restricted. Around 500,000 devotees visit Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple daily.