Sonepur. Intelligence Agencies have warned of a possible terror attack at the World Famous Sonepur Cattle Fair in Bihar. The fair is being held from November 5th and would continue till first week of December.
According to reports, the terrorists affiliated to Islamic State (ISIS) may target the fair. The Sonepur fair is considered largest Cattle Fair in the world and is visited by large number of foreign tourists every year. The Fair attracts International Visitors from countries like France, Italy, US, Japan, Switzerland, Australia, Kazakhstan, Austria and Portugal.
Pilgrims gather to watch the Sunset at Sonepur Fair
The Security arrangements have been tightened after the intelligence report. The Report says that due to recent disputes and skirmishes along India-Pakistan border, the terrorists may target the Sonepur fair, which expected over 1 Lakh pilgrims to take the holy bath at the confluence of river Ganga and Gandak near the Harihar Kshetra, in Sonepur.
The Sonepur Cattle Fair is organized every year during November-December. It is considered by many as World’s Largest Cattle Fair where one can find large number of Elephants. Major attraction is the sight of numerous elephants, beautifully decorated for the purpose of sale.
Apart from elephants, a large number of cattle and horses are also brought to the fair for sale. Many farm animals can be bought at the Sonepur mela from all breeds of dogs, buffaloes, donkeys, ponies, Persian horses, rabbits, goats and even the occasional camel. Many varieties of birds and poultry are also available.
Numerous stalls are also set up at the grounds of the Sonepur Cattle Fair. You will find a wide variety of goods in these stalls, ranging from garments, to weapons and furniture, toys, utensils and agricultural implements, jewelry and handicrafts. Various folk shows, games and jugglers can be seen in the fair.
The Fair has its origins during ancient times when noted Magadha ruler Chandragupta Maurya (340 BC – 298 BC) used to buy elephants and horses across the river Ganges.
To woo Foreign Tourists, BSTDC has been constructing Swiss Type Cottages in Tourist Village every year. This year it has constructed 20 double-bed Swiss Type cottages (with attached western toilets) in the Tourist Village to accommodate these tourists.
These specially erected thatched rooms having all the facilities and comforts of any good hotel, including uninterrupted power supply and well equipped bathrooms fitted with geysers. Free yoga classes and complementary elephant ride would also be provided to those booking cottages.
These cost Rs 4000-7000 per day and the Tourists can book online at BSTDC Website. This would reduce to Rs. 1450/day after next week and Rs. 500/day after next to next week.