- By Imran Zafar
- Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:48 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mahakumbh 2025: Lakhs of devotees gathered at the Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam for a holy dip on the occasion of Maghi Purnima at the Mahakumbh Mela early Wednesday. According to Additional Fair Officer Vivek Chaturvedi, the turnout has exceeded expectations, with large numbers continuing to arrive for the holy dip. The ritual bathing will extend throughout the day on Wednesday.
By 10 pm on Tuesday, around 1.43 crore devotees had already taken a dip at Sangam. The fair administration anticipates that approximately 2.5 crore pilgrims will participate in the Maghi Purnima bathing ritual.
Traffic Restrictions In Prayagraj to Manage Influx
To accommodate the surge in devotees, authorities have imposed strict traffic restrictions. Entry of vehicles into the Maha Kumbh area was halted a day in advance, and Prayagraj city has been declared a no-vehicle zone, except for emergency and essential service vehicles.
Despite the massive influx, the situation within the fairgrounds remains under control. Devotees are departing promptly after their holy dip, ensuring smooth movement. Officials report no major congestion inside the fair area.
Pilgrims Arrived In Large Numbers From Tuesday Evening
The influx of devotees began on Tuesday, with lakhs arriving at the Sangam bank by evening. As soon as conches were blown, signalling the start of the ritual, devotees began their sacred dips. Throughout the night, processions of pilgrims continued arriving via bus stands, railway stations, and parking areas, creating long queues of vehicles leading to Prayagraj.
Floral Shower From Helicopters To Mark Occasion
Adding to the festive atmosphere, a special floral shower from helicopters is scheduled for Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. Authorities have arranged for 25 quintals of flowers to be showered on the devotees participating in the Maghi Purnima bathing ritual.
Enhanced Security Following CM’s Review
In response to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s concern over crowd management, officials have increased security measures across the fairgrounds. Separate parking zones have been designated in all directions, with additional police personnel deployed in these areas. Barricading has been reinforced at Sangam to ensure a systematic movement of devotees.
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Key Details About Maghi Purnima Bathing
Start of Purnima Tithi: 6:55 p.m. on February 11
End of Mahasnaan Timing: 7:22 p.m. on February 12
Estimated Devotees Participating: 2.5 crore
Flowers for Aerial Shower: 25 quintals
Officials on Duty: 15 District Magistrates, 20 IAS officers, and 85 PCS officers
UP Police Strengthen Security Measures
With millions of devotees expected, the Uttar Pradesh Police have heightened security to ensure a safe and organized event. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vaibhav Krishna stated that a no-vehicle zone has been implemented, with only emergency vehicles allowed in the fair area.
Special arrangements have been made for crowd management. Vehicles belonging to Kalpvasis, pilgrims who stay for a month at the Kumbh Mela, will be permitted entry only after the bathing rituals conclude. Speaking to ANI, DIG Krishna confirmed, "A huge crowd is expected on Maghi Purnima, and police have been stationed at multiple locations. As devotees complete their bath and start leaving, Kalpvasis' vehicles will be allowed inside."
Authorities remain on high alert to ensure the smooth conduct of the Maha Kumbh festivities, facilitating a seamless experience for millions of pilgrims attending this sacred event.