Schools and colleges in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, will remain closed from August 3 to August 10 as the district administration has stepped up preparations for the annual Kanwar Yatra.The decision has been taken to ensure the smooth movement of Kanwar pilgrims and maintain public safety as a large number of devotees pass through the district during the pilgrimage.The closure comes ahead of the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan, when thousands of devotees are expected to offer jalabhishek at Shiva temples.The administration has strengthened security arrangements across the district. According to officials, additional police personnel have been deployed at major Shiva temples to manage the heavy rush of devotees.Separate queues have been arranged for women, while anti-slip mats and barricades have also been installed to help manage crowds safely. Anti-Romeo squads have been deployed at prominent temples to ensure the safety of women devotees.The number of Kanwar pilgrims carrying Ganga water from Haridwar has increased in recent days, prompting authorities to further tighten security and traffic management across the district.The Kanwar Yatra began on July 30 with the start of the Shravan month and will conclude on August 11.Apart from the closure of educational institutions, authorities have also ordered meat shops and restaurants located along Kanwar routes to remain closed till August 12. Phased traffic diversions and enhanced surveillance have also been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra.Students and parents are advised to follow official updates from the district administration regarding the reopening of schools and colleges after the holiday period.