Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
The International Minjar Fair, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most celebrated cultural festivals, is set to unfold in Chamba with grandeur and tradition. In preparation for the event, Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Chairman of the International Minjar Fair Committee, Mukesh Repaswal, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the fairgrounds on July 30, 2026. His visit underscored the administration’s commitment to ensuring safety, cleanliness, and seamless management for the thousands of visitors expected to attend.
Inspection of Fairgrounds
DC Repaswal toured the fair venue from Chowgan No. 1 to Chowgan No. 4, meticulously reviewing arrangements across multiple sectors. His inspection focused on:
- Security measures to safeguard attendees.
- Sanitation and hygiene across the fairgrounds.
- Traffic management and crowd control to prevent congestion.
- Encroachment removal to ensure free movement of visitors.
- Fire safety preparedness with functional equipment and vehicles.
- Food quality and safety standards at stalls and eateries.
He emphasized that the fair must reflect Chamba’s cultural pride while maintaining modern standards of safety and hospitality.
Directives Against Encroachment
During the inspection, DC Repaswal instructed SDM Chamba, Chirag Sharma, to ensure that no encroachment is allowed in the fair area or in Chamba’s main market. He stressed that any remaining encroachments must be removed immediately to guarantee smooth pedestrian flow and prevent disruptions in fair activities.
Sanitation and Cleanliness
The Deputy Commissioner directed Municipal Council officials to implement special sanitation measures. He highlighted:
- Regular cleaning of public toilets.
- Continuous garbage collection and disposal.
- Deployment of sanitation workers across the fairgrounds.
- Maintaining a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment for visitors.
He reiterated that cleanliness is not only a matter of public health but also reflects the cultural dignity of the International Minjar Fair.
Fire Safety Preparedness
Instructions were issued to the Fire Department to keep all vehicles, equipment, and resources in fully operational condition. The DC stressed that the department must remain on high alert to respond to any emergency swiftly.
Food Safety and Quality
The Food Safety Department was tasked with conducting regular inspections of hotels, dhabas, restaurants, and food stalls operating during the fair. DC Repaswal directed officials to ensure strict compliance with hygiene standards and food quality norms, safeguarding the health of visitors.
Police Security Arrangements
The Deputy Commissioner also reviewed the security arrangements made by the Police Department. At the Fair Control Room, he examined:
- CCTV surveillance systems for real-time monitoring.
- Communication networks for coordination among departments.
- Crowd management strategies to prevent stampedes or disorder.
- Traffic control plans to manage vehicular flow.
- Emergency preparedness protocols for unforeseen incidents.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Chamba, Vijay Singh Saklani, briefed him on the deployment of police forces, traffic regulation measures, and the functioning of the control room.
Coordination Among Departments
DC Repaswal directed departments including Jal Shakti (Water Supply), Electricity Board, Health, Transport, and others to ensure uninterrupted services. Key instructions included:
- Adequate drinking water supply.
- Reliable electricity connections across the fairgrounds.
- Parking facilities for visitors.
- Availability of first-aid centers and ambulances.
- Proper maintenance of public toilets.
He emphasized inter-departmental coordination and periodic reviews to address shortcomings immediately.
Self-Help Group Stalls
Before concluding his inspection, the DC visited stalls and exhibitions set up by Self-Help Groups (SHGs). He appreciated their participation, noting that such initiatives empower local communities and showcase Chamba’s rich handicrafts and traditional products.
Officials Present
The inspection was attended by senior officials including:
- SP Chamba Vijay Singh Saklani
- Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Mehra
- Additional Superintendent of Police Dinesh Sharma
- Assistant Commissioner Manmohan Singh
- SDM Chamba Chirag Sharma
- District Revenue Officer Vikramjeet Singh
- Deputy Superintendent of Police Mayank Sharma
- Senior Executive Officer Rakhi Kaushal
- DFSC Karan
- Nazir, DC Office Parveen Mehta
Their presence highlighted the collective effort of the district administration to ensure the fair’s success.
Cultural and Administrative Significance
The International Minjar Fair is not merely a cultural celebration but also a symbol of Chamba’s heritage. It attracts thousands of visitors, including dignitaries, tourists, and locals. The DC’s inspection and directives reflect the administration’s determination to balance tradition with modern governance, ensuring that the fair remains a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for all.
Conclusion
With the International Minjar Fair 2026 approaching, the Chamba administration under DC Mukesh Repaswal has demonstrated proactive leadership. By addressing issues of security, sanitation, food safety, and departmental coordination, the district is preparing to host one of Himachal Pradesh’s most iconic cultural events with efficiency and pride.
The directives issued today are expected to strengthen the fair’s management, uphold public safety, and enhance the visitor experience, reaffirming Chamba’s reputation as a hub of tradition, hospitality, and cultural vibrancy.
