PRAYAGRAJ: The grand Mahakumbh Mela 2025 commenced on a cold, foggy morning with a massive turnout of devotees thronging the sacred Triveni Sangam for the first ‘Shahi Snan’ on Paush Purnima. By 9:30 a.m. on the opening day, nearly 60 lakh people had taken a holy dip, marking a powerful start to the 45-day spiritual extravaganza. The Uttar Pradesh Police, in collaboration with NDRF and water police units, have implemented advanced security protocols, including a floating chowki to assist devotees.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the event, calling it a “rare opportunity to experience Uttar Pradesh’s spiritual and cultural richness.” The Mahakumbh, held only once every 144 years, is expected to witness an unprecedented gathering of over 40 crore attendees from around the globe.
Key Highlights of Mahakumbh Mela 2025
Safety and Security Measures
- Floating Chowki: A unique initiative by the Uttar Pradesh Police, the floating chowki has been set up to ensure rapid response for water-related emergencies.
- NDRF Teams: Multiple teams are strategically stationed to safeguard devotees during peak bathing periods.
Traffic and Navigation Systems
- Traffic Management: Extensive traffic plans are in place to manage the massive influx of pilgrims, ensuring smooth vehicular movement across Prayagraj.
- QR Code Installation: More than 50,000 QR codes have been deployed on electricity poles across the 25 sectors of the Kumbh area. These QR codes enable pilgrims to locate their positions and file electricity-related grievances.
Health Facilities
- New Hospitals: Three new hospitals along National Highway 19 in Bhadohi district (Aurai, Gopiganj, and Unj) have been established for emergency medical aid. These facilities will become fully operational by Makar Sankranti on January 14.
Major Bathing Rituals
- Upcoming Shahi Snans: Significant bathing dates include:
- Makar Sankranti on January 14
- Mauni Amavasya on January 29
- Basant Panchami on February 3
Namami Gange’s Grand Yagya
On the eve of the Mahakumbh, the Namami Gange initiative organized a large-scale ‘yagya’ at the Sangam to promote Ganga conservation. Over 200 Ganga Sevadoots and thousands of participants pledged to uphold the purity of the river, with special recognition given to young contributors of the Ganga Swachhata Abhiyan.
Government Commitment and Infrastructure
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak reassured attendees of comprehensive safety and health arrangements. “We welcome all devotees with open hearts. The government has ensured detailed preparations to manage every scenario,” he said.
The Prayagraj Mela Authority has erected 1.6 lakh tents to accommodate Kalpvasis, spanning the banks of the Ganga from Jhunsi to Fafamau. The expansive logistics, combined with technological innovations and spiritual fervor, make Mahakumbh 2025 a monumental event.
