Underwater drones, multilingual signage: Prayagraj prepares for Mega Maha Kumbh

Last updated:Dec 29, 2024 3:51 PM IST

The Uttar Pradesh government is making “extensive preparations to ensure that Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is a magnificent, safe and spiritually enriching event.”

Kumbh Mela will begin on January 13, 2025 in Prayagraj. (Image: Shutterstock)

Initially, “underwater drones” capable of diving up to 100 meters will be deployed for round-the-clock surveillance of the Sangam area in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj during the upcoming Maha Kumbh, the culture ministry said on Sunday.

In addition, 92 roads will be renovated, 30 pontoon bridges will be built and 800 multilingual signages will be installed to help pilgrims and other visitors showcase India’s culture and diversity.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Uttar Pradesh government is making “extensive preparations to ensure that Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is a magnificent, safe and spiritually enriching event,” the ministry said.

This 45-day festival from January 13 to February 26 is expected to attract over 40 million devotees from across the world to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.

The Ministry of Culture shared details of the ongoing preparations as well as the public facilities and security arrangements that will be in place for the mega community.

“For the first time, underwater drones capable of diving to depths of up to 100 meters will provide round-the-clock surveillance of the Sangam area,” it said in a statement.

In addition, the deployment of 2,700 artificial intelligence (AI) cameras will enable “real-time surveillance” and facial recognition technology will be used at entry points for enhanced security, the ministry said.

“A team of 56 cyber warriors will monitor online threats. Cyber ​​help desks will be set up at all police stations,” it said.

The ministry had recently announced that it would set up a thematic space called ‘Kalagram’ in Prayagraj to showcase India’s cultural heritage and diversity during the Maha Kumbh.

“Special arrangements have been made for international visitors with multilingual signage and cultural programs showcasing the diversity of India. Through these comprehensive efforts, Mahakumbh 2025 aims to be not just a religious gathering but a global celebration of spirituality, culture, security, sustainability and modernity,” the statement said.

‘Mahakumbh Nagar’ will be converted into a temporary city with thousands of tents and accommodations, including super-deluxe accommodations like IRCTC’s ‘Mahakumbh Gram’ luxury tent city, which offers luxury tents and villas with modern amenities, the ministry added.

According to the statement, rehabilitation of 92 streets and beautification of 17 major streets are nearing completion. The construction of 30 pontoon bridges with 3,308 pontoons is underway and 28 are already in operation.

A total of 800 multilingual signages (Hindi, English and regional languages) will be installed to guide visitors, the ministry said.

“Over 400 have been completed and the rest are expected to be completed by December 31,” it said.

Additionally, “over 2,69,000 checker plates have been laid for pathways” and mobile toilets and robust waste disposal systems will ensure hygiene, the statement said.

A number of measures have been taken to ensure robust disaster response in the event of an unforeseen incident.

A state-of-the-art multi-disaster response vehicle would improve safety and disaster preparedness and “be able to handle situations ranging from natural disasters to traffic accidents,” it said.

“These include a lifting bag with a capacity of 10 to 20 tons, which allows rescuing people buried under rubble, as well as special machines for lifting and moving heavy objects weighing up to 1.5 tons,” the statement said.

The ministry said it plans to deploy four Articulated Water Towers (AWTs), capable of fighting fires up to 35 meters high and 30 meters wide.

“Over Rs 131 million has been allocated for fire safety measures. The AWTs are equipped with advanced technologies, including video and thermal imaging systems, to prevent fire incidents and increase safety,” it said.

According to the statement, over 50,000 soldiers, including paramilitary forces, will be deployed.

Ahead of the grand festival, anticipation of Maha Kumbh is boosting local trade and demand for Mahakumbh-themed products such as diaries, calendars, gunny bags and stationery is increasing, the ministry said, adding: “Sales are up to 25% “Cents through meticulous branding”.

Temporary hospitals with surgical and diagnostic facilities will be set up for healthcare facilities.

The “Bhishma Cube”, which can treat up to 200 people at the same time, is in use, the statement says.

Besides, eye tests will be conducted for over five lakh pilgrims and more than three lakh pairs of glasses will be distributed at a ‘Netra Kumbh’ camp with the aim of setting a Guinness World Record as well, it said.

Environmentally friendly measures include using solar energy for lighting, promoting reusable materials and a “ban on single-use plastic,” the ministry said.

Digital innovations also include integration with Google Maps for navigation within “Mahakumbh Nagar”.

The Uttar Pradesh Pavillion near Nagavasuki Temple, spread over five acres, showcases UP’s tourist circuits such as Ramayana Circuit, Krishna-Braj Circuit, Buddhist Circuit and Bundelkhand Circuit and offers a handicraft market and cultural programs .

Development of new corridors such as Akshayavat Corridor, Saraswati Koop Corridor and Patalpuri Corridor and renovation of Nagvasuki Temple and Hanuman Temple Corridor are planned for the mega festival, the statement said.

(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI.)

Location :

Prayagraj, India