Vivek Chaturvedi, Additional District Magistrate, Prayagraj, in conversation with APAC News Network and CXO News shares details of on-ground preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025. Anannya Saraswat and Arpita Banerjee bring forward different interventions undertaken by the district administration for the successful execution of the grand Maha Kumbh Mela.
What is the anticipated number of devotees at the Mahakumbh 2025? Which regions are expected to contribute most to the attendees? What promotion strategies are in place to attract more devotees and foreign delegates at Mahakumbh 2025? What unique experiences can be expected at the Mahakumbh 2025?
In the 2019 Maha Kumbh, there were approximately 24 crore devotees. This time, we are expecting about 1.5 to 2 times higher than that number. The majority of devotees come from local areas, including villages, as well as Kalpavasis, who stay for an extended period.
The Maha Kumbh is primarily a religious event, and it naturally attracts devotees without invitations. However, significant attractions include 13 Akharas who settle down in the Mela area and perform Shahi Snan. In addition, the presence of spiritual leaders like Swami Avdeshanandji will be a key highlight attracting devotees all over the world.
The newly introduced corridors, such as the Akshayavat Corridor, are significant additions that will enhance the unique experience of Maha Kumbh. Moreover, we are expanding the bathing and circulation areas. A 12-kilometer-long continuous ghat is being created, which will be a major attraction, especially during nighttime. These developments aim to make the event more memorable for devotees.
In 2019, delegates from 70 nations attended the Mela. We are expecting similar participation this time as well, though we haven’t received official confirmations in writing yet. Most of the delegates are expected to come from South Asian, Southeast Asian, and European countries.
What kind of advanced technologies are put in place for registration, security, surveillance, and managing the attendees? What measures are in place to ensure the overall safety of thousands of devotees attending the Mahakumbh? What on-site infrastructure has been put in place to address health as well as other emergencies?
This time, we have implemented various technological solutions. Over 2,700 AI-enabled cameras are being installed to monitor and manage crowd control effectively. AI-enabled cameras and drone technologies are also being used for surveillance. For lost and found services, we have introduced the Bhashini App, available in 12 languages, and a dedicated Mela application. Google has signed an MoU with the Mela Authority to provide navigation systems for the entire Mela area. Additionally, project management information (PMI) software is being used to monitor the progress of over 500 works by various agencies.
Around 100 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed, along with the Anti-Terrorist Squad, 40,000 police personnel, special forces, and commandos.
A central hospital with 100 beds, including ICU facilities, has been established. In addition, we have two sub-central hospitals with 30 beds each and eight smaller sub-central hospitals. Over 130 ambulances, including 7-8 river ambulances and 1 air ambulance, are on standby. The Medical College in Prayagraj has been developed into a tertiary care center for any emergencies.
How is ‘Tent City’ being planned to ensure the accommodation of such a large influx of tourists during Mahakumbh? How can pilgrims avail an affordable and comfortable stay during the Mahakumbh?
Yes, 1.6 lakh tents are being set up in the tent city under a public-private partnership (PPP) model by the Tourism Department. These accommodations cater to both domestic and international attendees. Bookings can be made online through a dedicated website. Additionally, we are creating 25,000 public accommodations for an affordable and comfortable stay during the Mahakumbh.
What measures have been taken by the government to ensure smooth and safe travel?
Extensive road widening projects, the creation of flyovers, and the construction of roundabouts have been completed to ensure smooth transportation. The railway department plans to operate 800 to 900 trains on peak days, while roadways will deploy 5,000 to 7,000 buses. The airport terminal has also been expanded to handle increased flight frequencies.
