The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world's largest religious gatherings, is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Organizers anticipate approximately 400 million devotees will attend this 44-day event, which holds significant spiritual importance in Hinduism.
Preparations and Infrastructure:
To accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims, extensive preparations are underway:
Temporary City: A vast area spanning 40 square kilometers has been designated as a temporary city, featuring housing, roads, electricity, water supply, and communication towers. This area is divided into 25 sections to manage the crowd effectively.
Medical Facilities: Eleven hospitals are being established within the Mela grounds to provide medical assistance. Additionally, 407 doctors and over 700 paramedical staff will be deployed, offering 24-hour services with specialized care for women and children. A 100-bed temporary central hospital is also planned.
Sanitation: Approximately 20,000 workers are assigned to maintain cleanliness, ensuring a hygienic environment for attendees. The sanitation plan includes one sweeper for every 10 toilets, supervised by dedicated personnel.
Security Measures: Around 50,000 security personnel will be deployed to ensure safety, with training in stress management and soft skills to interact better with pilgrims. Over 2,500 surveillance cameras, some powered by artificial intelligence, will monitor crowd movements to prevent stampedes and manage emergencies.
Significance and Events:
The Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival held every 12 years, attracting millions of devotees who gather to bathe at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, seeking spiritual purification. The festival's timing is based on specific astrological positions, making it a once-in-12-years event in Prayagraj.
Visitor Information:
Pilgrims and tourists planning to attend can utilize the "Mahakumbh Mela 2025" app, which provides information on important locations such as ghats, temples, and other major religious sites, assisting with navigation and planning during the festival.