The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 witnessed a massive gathering of Hindu devotees on Magh Purnima (February 12, 2025), as millions took the sacred bath or 'Amrit Snan' at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Authorities have implemented extensive security, traffic, and crowd control measures to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims.
Magh Purnima Snan at Triveni Sangam: A Sacred Ritual
Magh Purnima is considered one of the most auspicious days for a holy dip in the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The bathing ritual began at 6:00 AM, attracting lakhs of devotees who braved the early morning chill to seek spiritual purification.
With the Magh Purnima Snan, the month-long Kalpavas has also come to an end. Over 10 lakh Kalpvasis—devotees who renounce worldly life for a month to live by the riverside in devotion—will now start departing from the Kumbh. The Uttar Pradesh government has urged Kalpvasis to follow traffic regulations and utilize designated parking areas for a hassle-free exit.
Security and Crowd Management Measures
The Uttar Pradesh government, under the supervision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has implemented strict security and traffic regulations to manage the enormous crowd. A war room has been set up at the CM’s official residence in Lucknow for real-time monitoring of the event.
Key Security Measures:
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'No Vehicle Zone' Declared
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The entire Kumbh Mela area has been declared a 'no vehicle zone' for February 12.
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From 4:00 AM on Tuesday, vehicles (except emergency and essential services) have been prohibited in the fairground.
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By 5:00 PM, the entire city of Prayagraj was also converted into a no-vehicle zone.
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Traffic and Public Transport Arrangements
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To avoid congestion, designated parking zones have been marked for public and private vehicles.
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A special traffic plan is in place to facilitate a smooth evacuation of devotees after the sacred bath.
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The state transport department has deployed 1,200 additional shuttle buses, available every 10 minutes, to assist devotees in returning home safely.
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Enhanced Police Deployment
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SSP Rajesh Dwivedi stated that additional police personnel have been stationed at key pressure points to manage the influx of devotees.
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ADG Bhanu Bhaskar confirmed that special police forces have been deployed in high-density areas to prevent overcrowding.
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Real-time traffic data from toll plazas and neighboring districts is being analyzed to regulate incoming vehicles.
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Record-Breaking Pilgrim Footfall at Maha Kumbh 2025
As the world's largest religious gathering, the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 has already seen an unprecedented number of visitors:
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Total Devotees Who Have Taken a Dip at Sangam: Over 45 crore (since January 13, 2025)
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Total Devotees Who Took the Holy Dip on Magh Purnima: 73.60 lakh
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Kalpvasis: 10 lakh
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Other Pilgrims: 63.60 lakh
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With just 15 days left before the Maha Kumbh concludes on February 26, authorities expect the total number of devotees to surpass all previous records.
When is the Final Snan?
The last and most significant bathing ritual, the Amrit Snan, will take place on February 26, 2025, coinciding with Mahashivratri. This marks the conclusion of the grand Maha Kumbh 2025.
Auspicious Date & Time for Magh Purnima Snan (Drik Panchang)
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Purnima Tithi Begins: 6:55 PM on February 11, 2025
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Purnima Tithi Ends: 7:22 PM on February 12, 2025
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Moonrise on Purnima: 5:59 PM
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s Message to Devotees
On the occasion of Magh Purnima Snan, CM Yogi Adityanath extended his greetings to all devotees, saints, and Kalpvasis attending the Kumbh. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he posted:
Heartiest greetings to all the revered saints, religious leaders, Kalpvasis, and devotees who have come for the holy bath at the sacred Triveni in Maha Kumbh-2025, Prayagraj. May everyone's life be filled with happiness, prosperity, and good fortune by the grace of Lord Shri Hari. May Maa Ganga, Maa Yamuna, and Maa Saraswati fulfill everyone's wishes.
Stampede Incident During Manu Amaswya Snan
Despite extensive security measures, a tragic stampede occurred during the Manu Amaswya Amrit Snan on January 29, 2025. According to official reports, the incident resulted in:
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30 fatalities
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60 injuries
Authorities have since enhanced security protocols to prevent any recurrence, especially as the Maha Kumbh nears its grand conclusion.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 continues to witness unparalleled spiritual fervor, attracting millions of devotees from across India and around the world. With rigorous security measures, real-time traffic monitoring, and extensive crowd control protocols, authorities aim to ensure a safe and seamless experience for all pilgrims. As the final Amrit Snan on February 26 approaches, the Maha Kumbh is set to make history with record-breaking participation in one of Hinduism's most sacred traditions.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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