The Maha Kumbh Mela commenced on Monday with millions of devotees taking part in the holy dip, marking the beginning of the world’s largest spiritual gathering. As devotees queued for the ‘Snan’ at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh’s Director General of Police, Prashant Kumar, outlined the use of advanced technology to enhance security and streamline operations during this grand event.
In an interview, DGP Kumar said, “The Maha Kumbh began this morning with the holy dip. Nearly 60 lakh people have already taken the dip. This year’s Kumbh is a mixture of faith and modernity. In addition to the traditional police arrangements, we have implemented the latest technologies to provide better security for the devotees, and it is having a positive impact.”
Highlighting the measures in place for crowd management, DGP Kumar further said, “The UP Police has been given the opportunity to provide enhanced security, and we are following that protocol. Today, there will also be a flower shower. We are managing crowds and traffic through drones and CCTV. Senior officers have been on the ground and they are keeping an eye on everything since morning at the control rooms.”
Kumar added that the extension of the ghats and improvements to crowd management systems are aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of all attendees. “We have increased the length of the ghats, which has prevented any overcrowding. This Kumbh will be grand, divine, digital, and secure. All arrangements are being made accordingly,” he said.
In addition to traditional security measures, the Uttar Pradesh police have established a special floating police chowki (post) to assist devotees throughout the 45-day-long event. The Traffic Police authorities have also devised a detailed plan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and safety for visitors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his enthusiasm for the commencement of the Maha Kumbh Mela, calling it a “very special day” for crores of people who uphold Indian values and culture.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote, “A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture. Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion and culture. The Maha Kumbh embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony.”
He also expressed happiness at seeing the influx of pilgrims and tourists in Prayagraj, wishing them a pleasant stay. “I am happy to see Prayagraj abuzz with countless people coming there, taking the holy dip and seeking blessings. Wishing all pilgrims and tourists a wonderful stay,” PM Modi added.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, which began on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima, is expected to attract over 45 crore devotees. This year’s event is especially significant due to the rare celestial alignment that occurs once every 144 years. The first major Shahi or Amrit Snan is scheduled for Tuesday, coinciding with Makar Sankranti.
The Kumbh Mela, a celebration of faith, spirituality, and culture, will be held till February 26, drawing millions from across the globe to the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers.
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