Maha Kumbh 2025: As preparations for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 gather pace, authorities are using a blend of ancient traditions and modern technology to manage one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The festival, which will be held between January 13 and February 26, is expected to draw an estimated 40 to 45 crore visitors to Prayagraj.
On a cold winter morning at the Parade Ground in Sangam, a group of young men, including 24-year-old electrician Sandeep, were seen scanning QR codes on a massive poster. The QR codes provided a digital guide for the event, offering quick access to information on Kumbh administration, emergency assistance, hotels, food, and the achievements of Uttar Pradesh. “We don’t know the exact locations, so we’re scanning these QR codes to help us get to our respective places,” Sandeep said, as quoted by news agency PTI.
The poster also featured images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, with each QR code offering insights into the meticulous planning behind the festival. A WhatsApp number next to each code offered real-time assistance.
The state government has also collaborated with Google Maps to display all roads and important locations in the Mahakumbh Nagar, providing accessible directions to visitors.
The Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) located in the Mela Administration complex will act as the central hub for operations. The ICCC is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including AI-enabled smart cameras, which monitor every aspect of the event, from crowd movements to traffic flow. “We are using cutting-edge technologies to manage every aspect of the Kumbh this time. With these smart systems and enhanced capabilities, we are confident we can streamline operations and ensure that Mahakumbh 2025 remains safe, efficient, and organised,” said Rajesh Dwivedi, Senior Superintendent of Police for Mahakumbh Nagar, as per PTI.
Real-time data from the cameras feeds into the ICCC, where police officers and senior officials monitor the event round the clock. The system is designed to provide alerts on crowd density, parking lot occupancy, and potential hazards, enabling immediate action. “Apart from real-time information provided by our field officers, the ICCC is empowered with the latest AI systems that give us alerts about crowd density, parking lot occupancy, and even potential hazards like fires,” a senior official explained.
To further streamline operations, the government is employing the Bhasini App to enable communication in multiple languages, and a 'Lost and Found' area has been set up where digital information about lost individuals will be shared in real-time with relevant authorities. The Railways is also implementing smart digital methods, including colour-coded tickets for passengers coming to Prayagraj during the Kumbh. The colour codes will vary depending on the direction and place of origin of the passenger.
ALSO READ | Maha Kumbh 2025 Goes Digital: From Cyber Police Tackling Digital Threats To Underwater Drones
Kumbh Mela 2025: Uttar Pradesh Government’s New E-Pass System For Vehicles
Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh Government has announced a new e-pass system for vehicles to ensure smooth management and security during the event. Six different coloured e-passes will be issued: white for VIPs, saffron for Akharas, yellow for institutions, sky blue for media personnel, blue for police, and red for emergency vehicles, news agency ANI reported.
“Six coloured e-passes are being issued for the convenience, smooth management and security of devotees in Mahakumbh. Different coloured e-passes are being issued for police, Akharas and VIPs. Quota is being determined on the basis of category. Nodal officers are also being nominated at the departmental level so that devotees coming from the country and abroad do not face any kind of inconvenience,” an official statement informed.
As devotees begin to gather, the first Ganga Aartis of the season have already begun, with women participating in a special ritual at the Triveni Sangam. The 'aartis' are serving as a rehearsal for the upcoming Kumbh Mela, which is expected to attract a massive turnout from January 13 to February 26. The main bathing rituals, or Shahi Snan (royal baths), are scheduled for January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).
With extensive digital tools and a focus on effective communication, Maha Kumbh 2025 is shaping up to be an innovative and smoothly coordinated event, seamlessly blending age-old traditions with modern advancements.