A huge number of devotees flocked to the ghats of Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on Wednesday to take a sacred dip on the occasion of Magh Purnima. The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela witnessed an overwhelming crowd as people arrived early in the morning to perform the ritual.
Drone Footage Shows Large Gatherings
Early morning drone visuals revealed a massive crowd surrounding the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Additional Mela officer Vivek Chaturvedi acknowledged the unexpected turnout and assured that authorities had made all necessary preparations. He confirmed that the holy dip would continue throughout the day.
Over 45 Crore Devotees Have Participated So Far
On Tuesday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared that more than 45 crore devotees had taken the Triveni bath since the Maha Kumbh began. He extended his greetings to seers and pilgrims, emphasizing the spiritual significance of bathing, donating, and worshiping on this auspicious occasion.
Special Arrangements for Magh Purnima Snan
Authorities implemented several measures to ensure a smooth and safe experience for devotees. Officials meticulously planned crowd management as the event also marked the conclusion of the month-long Kalpavas, a sacred tradition observed by pilgrims. Kalpavas began on January 13, coinciding with Paush Purnima.
Security Measures in Place
To maintain order, officials declared a no-vehicle zone in Prayagraj, except for emergency services. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vaibhav Krishna advised devotees to check UP Police’s social media accounts for verified updates. Additionally, designated parking areas were set up to prevent traffic congestion.
Schools Shift to Online Classes
To avoid inconvenience, all secondary schools in Prayagraj switched to online classes from February 7 to 12. This decision aimed to ease travel difficulties for students amid the heavy rush of pilgrims.
AI-Powered Surveillance and Traffic Control
Authorities deployed artificial intelligence-enabled cameras and drones to monitor crowd movements and regulate traffic. Officials also gathered real-time data from toll plazas to track incoming vehicles and ensure better traffic management across neighboring districts.
Robust Healthcare Services for Devotees
With an expected rise in footfall, healthcare services were strengthened. All hospitals in Prayagraj, including those in the Maha Kumbh area, were placed on high alert. The administration deployed 133 ambulances, comprising 125 road ambulances, seven river ambulances, and one air ambulance.
Nodal medical officer Dr. Gaurav Dubey confirmed that more than 2,000 personnel were stationed across the fairgrounds. Additionally, 700 extra staff members remained on standby at Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital, which reserved 250 beds and secured 200 units of blood. All 43 hospitals in Mahakumbh Nagar, each with a 500-bed capacity, were fully prepared for emergencies.
Travel Facilities Enhanced for Pilgrims
Authorities made extensive travel arrangements to accommodate the influx of devotees. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected Prayagraj railway station and reviewed preparations at eight other stations ahead of Magh Purnima. Meanwhile, the state transport department deployed 1,200 additional buses, scheduled to run every 10 minutes.
Maha Kumbh 2025 Continues Until February 26
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13, is held once every 12 years and is considered the world’s largest spiritual gathering. The grand event will conclude on February 26, coinciding with the festival of Mahashivratri.
