Haridwar, July 4 -- The upcoming Shravan Kanwar Yatra will serve as a learning exercise for preparations for the Kumbh Mela scheduled early next year, tourism minister Satpal Maharaj said on Friday as he directed officials to complete all Kanwar Mela-related infrastructure and civic works by July 25 to ensure smooth arrangements for the annual pilgrimage. Maharaj said this during a review meeting at the city control room near Har Ki Pauri, jointly chaired with Transport minister Pradeep Batra, to assess preparations for the Kanwar Yatra, which is expected to attract over four crore devotees this year. The minister said the experience gained during the Kanwar Yatra would help authorities strengthen planning and management for the Kumbh Mela, making it imperative for all departments to execute their responsibilities efficiently and in coordination. "All related works should be completed within the stipulated timeframe so that Kanwariyas do not face any inconvenience and return to their respective destinations with a memorable experience of Uttarakhand, particularly Haridwar and Rishikesh, where the majority of devotees arrive to collect holy Ganga water. All departments must work in coordination under the supervision of the district and Mela administrations to ensure the successful conduct of the Shravan Kanwar pilgrimage," Maharaj said. He said flower petals would be showered on devotees at Har Ki Pauri during the pilgrimage. Water ambulance services will be deployed, while air ambulance facilities will also be kept on standby if required. The July 25 deadline for completion of permanent and temporary works was earlier fixed by District Magistrate Mayur Dixit....