Kumbh Mela on Mauni Amavasya, over 3 crore devotees expected today
New Delhi : Crore of devotees are visiting the divine Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. On Mauni Amavasya, today, devotees from far-flung have visited the spot for 'Shahi Snan' or auspicious dip. Traditionally, today is the most significant of all the scared bathing days at the Kumbh. Reports confirm crowd is increasing by the hour says reports. From the railway station to the temporary township of Kumbh Nagari, there is rush of devotees and loudspeaker are guiding them towards the bathing ghats.
Over three crore people are expected at the Kumbh for 'Mauni Amavasya', which is a new moon day in the Hindu calendar of Magha month. And it is believed to have greater significance if it falls on a Monday, which is case this year. It is believed that on this day, sage Rishabh Dev broke his long vow of silence and bathed in the holy waters.
In terms of security, the entire area has been divided into 10 zones and 25 sectors, which are being monitored by an Additional Superintendent of Police level officer. Over 40 police stations and as many fire stations has been set up in the Kumbh Mela ground.
Forty-three fire stations, 15 sub-fire stations, 40 fire watchtowers and 96 control watchtowers have been set up for the day, said an Uttar Pradesh home department official. The entire area is under surveillance of 440 CCTV cameras. For close coordination and prompt communication, an Integrated Command Control Centre and 12 wireless grids have been established, the official said.
Entry of vehicles has been restricted in the 32,000-acre Kumbh Nagri. The administration is running over 500 shuttle buses for the pilgrims to make their way from various parts of Prayagraj to the Sangam.
The Kumbh witnesses a total of three 'Shahi Snans', the first of which took place on Makar Sankranti on January 15, when the Mela started, the second is on Mauni Amavasya and the last one is on February 10, that is, Basant Panchmi. The Kumbh Mela comes to a close on March 4.
