As the Sawan month approaches, starting July 22, schools in Varanasi will observe a significant change in their weekly schedule. In response to the Kanwad Yatra and the associated traffic regulations, the administration has decided to close schools every Monday throughout the month of Sawan and instead keep them operational on Sundays.
Adjustment in School Schedule
The decision to close schools on Mondays comes as a measure to alleviate the difficulties faced by students and parents during the Kanwad Yatra, which sees a large influx of devotees heading to the Kashi Vishwanath Dham to offer holy water to Lord Shiva. With a no-vehicle zone being implemented from Maidagin to Godowlia, many routes will be restricted, affecting daily commutes. Schools will now operate on Sundays to ensure that students do not face undue hardships traveling to and from school on restricted routes.
Traffic and Accessibility Changes
The administration has put in place several traffic management measures to accommodate the increased number of devotees. The no-vehicle zone will be enforced from 10 pm every Sunday until midnight on Monday, covering the area from Maidagin to Ramapura via Godowlia. This will allow only foot traffic in these areas, with special provisions like wheelchair and golf-cart facilities for the elderly and sick devotees. Similar restrictions will be in place towards Dashashwamedh Ghat from Girija Ghat intersection.
Community Support and Feedback
Rahul Singh, President of the Purvanchal School Welfare Association, highlighted that the number of devotees visiting Kashi Vishwanath Dham continues to rise each year. This year, the adjustment in school schedules has been welcomed by both parents and school authorities. The move is aimed at easing the commute for students who rely on autos, vans, and buses, given that vehicle access will be restricted in many areas.
Implications for Devotees and Residents
For devotees, the changes provide a more manageable experience during the Kanwad Yatra, ensuring that their pilgrimage is as smooth as possible. For residents, the shift in school schedules is seen as a practical solution to mitigate traffic congestion and ensure that students’ education continues with minimal disruption.
Overall, the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to balancing the needs of the community with the traditional observances of the Sawan month, ensuring both smooth traffic flow and continued educational activities.
