Maghi Purnima Snan begins at Kumbh: Devotees take holy dip amid tight security

Prayagraj witnessed a massive gathering as lakhs of devotees took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the Maghi Purnima Snan at the Maha Kumbh Mela on Wednesday. This sacred bath marks the fourth major bathing event at the grand religious congregation and signifies the end of the month-long Kalpavas. Approximately 10 lakh Kalpvasis will now begin leaving the fairgrounds.

Strict Security and Crowd Management

In light of the tragic stampede during the Mauni Amavasya Amrit Snan last month, where 30 people lost their lives, authorities have implemented extensive security measures to prevent any untoward incidents. Special police forces have been deployed at key crowd management points, ensuring smooth movement and safety for pilgrims.

Kumbh SSP Rajesh Dwivedi stated that police personnel, who have been stationed at the event for two months, are working in 12-hour shifts to assist and guide devotees. “We are ensuring smooth movement at all major entry and exit points,” he added.

Traffic Restrictions and Transportation Facilities

To manage the massive influx of devotees, strict traffic regulations have been enforced. The Kumbh area has been declared a no-vehicle zone since 4 AM on Tuesday, while Prayagraj city followed suit from 5 PM, except for emergency and essential service vehicles.

Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department has deployed 1,200 shuttle buses, running at 10-minute intervals, to facilitate the smooth departure of pilgrims from the fairgrounds. Designated parking spaces for both private and public vehicles have been arranged to prevent congestion.

Prayagraj Additional Director General Bhanu Bhaskar highlighted that real-time data is being gathered from toll plazas and neighboring district officials to efficiently regulate traffic along Maha Kumbh routes.

Yogi Adityanath Oversees Operations

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been closely monitoring the situation from his official residence in Lucknow since early morning. Senior officials, including Director General of Police Prashant Kumar and Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad, were present at the state’s control center to oversee operations.

Extending his wishes, Adityanath tweeted, “Heartiest congratulations to all devotees and saints on the holy occasion of Maghi Purnima! May Lord Shri Hari and the sacred rivers Maa Ganga, Maa Yamuna, and Maa Saraswati bless everyone with happiness and prosperity.”

Maha Kumbh Nears Grand Conclusion

With only 14 days left until the Maha Kumbh concludes on February 26, the Uttar Pradesh government reported that over 45 crore devotees have taken a dip in the holy Sangam since the event began on January 13. The final Amrit Snan is scheduled for Maha Shivratri, marking the conclusion of this grand spiritual gathering.