Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently launched a series of significant initiatives aimed at ensuring security, cleanliness, and overall infrastructure improvements for the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj.
The total value of these projects amounts to an impressive ₹237.38 crores, underscoring the scale of preparations underway for this massive religious event.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a once-in-12-years event, is one of the largest gatherings of devotees in the world, where millions of people come to take a holy dip in the Ganga River.
This year, the event is scheduled to take place between January 13 and February 26, 2025, and the Uttar Pradesh government is pulling out all the stops to ensure a safe and seamless experience for attendees.
During the launch event in Prayagraj, CM Yogi Adityanath detailed several key measures that will be implemented to improve both security and cleanliness at the venue.
The mela area will be significantly expanded, increasing its coverage to 4,000 hectares. This will include the establishment of 25 sectors, 14 flyovers, inner passes, and 12 km of temporary ghats, which will facilitate the large influx of visitors.
One of the standout features of this year’s preparations is the focus on sanitation. CM Yogi assured that the Ganga River will remain free from any garbage, with one and a half lakh toilets being set up throughout the mela grounds.
Furthermore, 30 platoon bridges, 67,000 LED lights, 200 water ATMs, and 85 tube wells will be installed to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims.
To improve the overall experience for visitors, digital solutions will be integrated into the mela. A digitalized Kumbh map will be available to assist attendees, along with smartphones and enhanced security systems.
This year, technology will play a crucial role in both safety and convenience. For instance, artificial intelligence (AI) will be incorporated into the CCTV systems to enhance surveillance across the entire event space, allowing for more efficient monitoring and response to any potential issues.
The security of the pilgrims is a top priority, with the Uttar Pradesh Police working alongside the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other local law enforcement agencies.
More than 220 expert deep-sea divers from the NDRF and SDRF will be stationed at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Sarasvati rivers, to ensure the safety of those participating in the sacred bathing rituals. These divers will be supported by 700 boats, providing constant vigilance in the waters.
In addition to the efforts in securing the event grounds, a robust plan for continuous lighting will be implemented. Over 40,000 rechargeable bulbs will be installed throughout the fairgrounds to maintain lighting, even during potential power outages, ensuring the safety of pilgrims at all times, particularly during late-night hours.
The preparation for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is not just about infrastructure and technology but also about ensuring the health and safety of the devotees.
Teams from the water police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and healthcare staff will be strategically positioned to respond to emergencies promptly, creating a comprehensive safety net for the millions expected to attend.
On the administrative front, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya conducted a review of the ongoing preparations, confirming that everything is being carried out with great attention to detail.
He emphasized the importance of completing all work on time and to a high standard. Maurya also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Prayagraj on December 13 to assess the final preparations.
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