New Delhi: Prayagraj witnessed a large gathering of devotees at Triveni Sangam as the Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday with the auspicious ‘Shahi Snan’ on the occasion of Paush Purnima. Devotees took holy dips and performed sacred rituals and the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam.
“The arrangements here are very good. There is provision for everything, including food, accommodation, and well-maintained roads,” a devotee was quoted by news agency ANI as saying. Another devotee from Jaipur, expressed his gratitude to chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring a seamless experience.
Seamless experience for devotees
Over 45 crore devotees are expected to visit during the Maha Kumbh, which will conclude on February 26. To provide a seamless experience to the devotees, authorities have put in place extensive safety measures. Teams from NDRF and Uttar Pradesh Water Police have been deployed in the area. A detailed traffic management plan has also been put in place, with designated entry and exit routes.
To accommodate the vast number of visitors, parking arrangements have been made at Chini Mill Parking, Purva Surdas Parking, Garapur Road, Samyamai Temple Kachar Parking, and other locations. The Akshayavat Darshan will remain closed to visitors during major bathing festivals.
Over 10,000 acres near the Sangam have been revamped, with the creation of eight permanent ghats in addition to the existing temporary ones. More than 1.6 lakh tents have been erected to house the devotees, transforming the area into a dedicated spiritual zone, officially designated as the state’s 76th district.
A revamped Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh
Prayagraj’s transformation includes illuminated crossroads and enhanced road aesthetics featuring over 3 lakh plants and 1 lakh horticultural saplings. LED butterfly lights and vibrant signage welcome the sea of humanity pouring into the city.
Over 35 lakh devotees had already arrived by Sunday, and the first two days are expected to witness over 4 crore pilgrims taking the holy dip. The Maha Kumbh’s grand scale, combined with meticulous planning, has made it a historic event.
