Prayagraj: With just one day to go for the world’s largest religious gathering, the Mahakumbh, in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, state police have implemented extensive security measures across the city to safeguard the over 45 crore attendees expected at the event, which occurs every 12 years.
Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar of Uttar Pradesh said that thorough security preparations have been made for the event, scheduled from January 13 to February 26. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the establishment of a strong security network in Prayagraj, including vital routes linking the district to surrounding areas.
Enhanced security
In preparation for the Mahakumbh 2025, set to take place in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, extensive security measures have been put in place as per the instructions of the chief minister. A circular security system with 102 checkpoints has been established along seven critical routes, including both vehicle and individual checks, news agency ANI reported.
Prashant Kumar, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Uttar Pradesh, said that the state police is fully committed to the safety of all attendees, with over 1,000 officers deployed. Extra personnel, including 71 inspectors, 234 sub-inspectors, 645 constables, and 113 Home Guards/PRD (Prantiya Rashtra Dal) have been assigned to maintain order.
To further enhance security, specialised equipment has been brought in, including five Vajra vehicles, 10 drones and four anti-sabotage teams, all working 24/7 to monitor the event. In a strategic effort to protect vital sites, including temples and akhadas, a multi-layered security structure, dubbed the “impenetrable security chakravyuh,” has been established around Prayagraj.
Preparedness drills have been carried out in partnership with the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), National Security Guard (NSG), Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and Uttar Pradesh Police to ensure a quick response to any emergencies. That apart, cutting-edge technology has been integrated into the security framework. A total of 2,700 AI-enabled cameras have been installed around the Kumbh area, along with 113 underwater drones designed to monitor the waterways.
Mahakumbh 2025 highlights
The Mahakumbh, which attracts over 45 crore devotees every 12 years, will end on February 26. Major bathing rituals, known as Shahi Snan, are scheduled on key dates: January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). The event, held at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythological Saraswati rivers, is set to be one of the largest gatherings in the world.
