Prayagraj / The Times of India
The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj deployed new cleaning technology. Authorities introduced manual sweeping machines and battery-operated litter pickers. These machines aim to keep the mela grounds clean. The equipment is eco-friendly. The move improves the experience for devotees and tourists. The machines offer efficient cleaning without manual labour.
Prayagraj health authorities are implementing a high-tech mosquito and fly control system for Mahakumbh 2025. Over 200 automatic blower mist and fogging machines will ensure a swift 30-minute response to insect-related issues. A dedicated team of malaria inspectors and officers will be deployed across the mela campus, prioritizing the well-being of both saints and pilgrims.
Prayagraj prepares for a grand cultural spectacle during Mahakumbh. Twenty stages will showcase diverse folk arts. Over 10,000 artists will perform daily. Ramlilas from various states will add a spiritual touch. The event runs from January 10 to February 24. Cultural programs will enrich the experience for devotees and tourists.
India's first Dome City, a Rs 51 crore project, is under construction in Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh. Forty-four bulletproof and fireproof domes will house 176 cottages, offering a hill station-like experience with modern amenities. Cottages will cost between Rs 41,000 and Rs 81,000, while domes will range from Rs 81,000 to Rs 1,10,000, depending on the festival period.
Prayagraj Mela police are implementing an AI-driven data analytics system for enhanced security at the 2025 Mahakumbh. The system will analyze real-time data for crowd management and threat detection, supporting the 40 crore pilgrims expected. A dedicated team will manage the system and train officers, ensuring smooth operation and inter-agency coordination.
Prayagraj mela police have implemented a 12-km river traffic management system for the Mahakumbh. This includes a single-route system for 4,000 boats, deep-water barricades, and platforms for Jal Police. Divers, SDRF, NDRF, and PAC personnel will ensure pilgrim safety, supported by a floating traffic control station and jetties. Real-time monitoring will be conducted via Dial 112.
The Allahabad High Court intervened after three Muslim siblings were expelled from a private school in Amroha for allegedly bringing non-vegetarian food. The court ordered the district magistrate to ensure their admission to another CBSE school within two weeks and submit an affidavit of compliance by January 6th or appear before the court.
The irrigation department, guided by IIT-Guwahati, merged three streams of the Ganges River into one near Prayagraj. This created 22 hectares of additional land for the Maha Kumbh 2025, improving bathing facilities for millions of devotees. Despite challenging currents and equipment setbacks, dredging machines successfully unified the river, enhancing the Sangam area's capacity and organization.
Prayagraj prepares for the 2025 Mahakumbh Mela with a new high-tech control room. The facility will manage the world's largest religious gathering. Bollywood art director Pawan Pandey designed the control room. It will monitor all mela activities. The control room will house over 100 officials. It features specialized cabins and media blocks. The room's artwork showcases Prayagraj's temples.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) volunteers are collecting plates and cotton bags nationwide for distribution at the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela. This initiative aims to reduce waste by minimizing the use of disposable items. With an expected 45 crore attendees, the 'One Bag, One Plate' campaign seeks to promote environmental consciousness and connect people with Hindu cultural values.
The Indian Railways has dismissed media reports claiming free travel during the Maha Kumbh Mela as aseless and misleading. It clarified that travel without a ticket remains an offense and no free travel provisions exist. The Railways is implementing measures like special holding areas and extra ticket counters to handle the expected passenger surge.
Sambhal MP Ziaur Rahman Barq has petitioned the Allahabad high court to halt his arrest and dismiss the FIR against him. Police allege Barq's inflammatory remarks sparked the deadly November 24th Jama Masjid clash, which claimed five lives. Seven FIRs have been filed, naming Barq and five others, along with 2,750 unidentified individuals.
As Maha Kumbh approaches, over 1,500 police, including 500 gunners, will protect seers and religious organizations. Many seers, claiming self-assessed threats, are requesting additional security and crowd management personnel. While some requests are genuine, others appear to be for status or crowd control, raising concerns about the true need for such extensive security measures.
Prayagraj is gearing up for the Maha Kumbh starting January 13, anticipating over 700,000 devotees to partake in the month-long Kalpvas. Extensive arrangements, including strategically placed tents spanning 900 bighas, prioritize devotee comfort and easy access to the Ganga for ritual bathing. Cleanliness is paramount, with color-coded dustbins managing waste. Kalpvasis will seek spiritual solace through this austere riverside pilgrimage.