Government gears up for last Kumbh Snan on Shivratri with more barricades, and crowd management system

Since the festival began on January 13, approximately over 62 crore devotees have participated

As the Maha Kumbh 2025 nears its grand culmination with the final snan (holy dip) on Maha Shivratri, February 26, the Uttar Pradesh government has intensified preparations to manage the overwhelming influx of devotees. With over a crore pilgrims expected to converge at the Sangam for the auspicious occasion, authorities have reinforced crowd management, medical support, sanitation, and security arrangements.

The administration has implemented a series of measures to ensure a seamless experience for devotees. Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh emphasised that every aspect, from traffic regulation to sanitation, is being closely monitored. "We are leaving no stone unturned to facilitate a safe and peaceful Maha Shivratri snan. Our teams are working round the clock to regulate traffic, manage crowds, and ensure that devotees can take the holy dip without any hindrance," he said.

Prayagraj District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar highlighted the improvements in logistical arrangements. "The crowd management plan has been revised and intensified in anticipation of the final snan. We have increased the number of barricades, deployed additional police personnel, and created more designated entry and exit points to avoid congestion," he said, and added: “Mah Shivratri would be no vehicle zone.”.

Sanitation efforts have also been ramped up to maintain cleanliness at the ghats and surrounding areas. "Special teams have been deployed to ensure round-the-clock cleanliness. The focus is on waste management, clean drinking water supply, and maintaining hygienic conditions across the Mela grounds," said a senior municipal officer overseeing the arrangements.

Security and Medical Services Strengthened

Following a tragic stampede earlier in the festival, which claimed over 30 lives, authorities have reinforced security measures to prevent any recurrence. Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar stated that security arrangements have been scaled up to handle the massive crowd. "We have increased police deployment at all key points, particularly at the Sangam and major approach routes. Drone surveillance and CCTV monitoring have been intensified to track crowd movement in real time," he said.

He further added, "We are also coordinating closely with intelligence agencies to prevent any possible security threats. Any suspicious activity will be dealt with immediately, and strict action will be taken against those trying to disrupt the event’s sanctity."

Medical facilities have also been significantly upgraded. "Emergency response teams have been positioned at critical locations, and we have set up additional medical camps with fully equipped ambulances on standby. Doctors and paramedics are available 24/7 to handle any medical emergencies," said a senior doctor in state-run hospital in Prayagraj.

Swaroop Rani Nehru (SRN) Hospital has been put on high alert, with additional beds and staff assigned to deal with any emergency cases. "We have stocked up on essential medicines, and our ICU and trauma units are fully prepared to handle any situation," said a senior hospital administrator.

Massive Turnout Reflects Maha Kumbh’s Global Appeal

Since the festival began on January 13, approximately over 62 crore devotees have participated, taking a dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati. Even in its final phase, nearly one crore pilgrims continue to arrive daily, underscoring the spiritual significance of the event.

Religious leaders and saints from various sects of Sanatan Dharma have been an integral part of the celebrations. "The Maha Kumbh is not just a festival; it is a testament to our spiritual heritage and unity. We are blessed to witness this divine gathering," said Swami Avdheshanand Giri, a prominent religious leader.

Apart from religious figures, dignitaries including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Governors, and Chief Ministers of multiple states have taken part in the sacred ritual at Sangam. The global appeal of the event is evident, with foreign dignitaries such as the King of Bhutan, international diplomats, business tycoons, and film personalities also participating.

The Yogi government has also taken a tough stance against misinformation on social media. DGP Prashant Kumar warned against any attempts to spread rumors or disrupt the event. "We are closely monitoring social media platforms to curb the spread of fake news. Over 50 FIRs have already been registered against individuals attempting to create unrest through misleading posts," he said.

Strict action is being taken against those trying to instigate panic or disorder. "Any attempt to tarnish the sanctity of Mahakumbh will not be tolerated. The police are on high alert, and miscreants will face legal consequences," said a senior home department official.

Final Arrangements to Ensure a Peaceful Conclusion

As Maha Shivratri approaches, authorities remain vigilant to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees. With reinforced security, improved medical support, and meticulous crowd management, the administration aims to conclude Maha Kumbh 2025 on a smooth and sacred note.

"The Maha Kumbh is a moment of faith and devotion. It is our duty to ensure that every pilgrim leaves with a heart full of divine blessings and an experience free of hardships," said Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh.