Maha Kumbh: Final snan on Maha Shivratri, govt ramps up preparations

Comprehensive measures are being implemented to ensure smooth rituals, enhanced sanitation, efficient crowd management and adequate medical facilities. Authorities are also focusing on security arrangements, transportation logistics and emergency response systems.

A comprehensive plan has been implemented for railways, traffic diversions and parking. Senior officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any inconvenience to devotees.

By Saturday evening, more than 1.43 crore pilgrims had reached Kumbh, while the numbers stood at over 1.28 crore on Friday and Thursday. The total footfall has reached 59.31 crore by Saturday evening and is expected to cross 60 crore by Sunday.

Prayagraj District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar said a detailed crowd management plan prepared to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims have been intensified with Maha Shivratri approaching.

On Friday, UP Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh and DGP Prashant Kumar visited Maha Kumbh Nagar to review and issue necessary directives. They inspected the Sangam Ghats by boat, assessing cleanliness and sanitation measures while instructing officials to maintain the highest standards.

The government has significantly strengthened healthcare services, expanding emergency medical facilities at Swaroop Rani Nehru (SRN) Hospital in Prayagraj.

Dr Santosh Singh, Media In-charge of Motilal Nehru Medical College, said that in 2017, SRN Hospital had only 52 ICU beds, which have now been expanded to 147. The Trauma Care Centre has been equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including ventilators, monitoring systems, and round-the-clock emergency medical teams.

Due to the heavy influx of pilgrims and traffic diversions during the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, the UP State Board has also decided to reschedule the high school and intermediate examinations in Prayagraj slated to be held on February 24 to March 9.