Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj set to welcome over 40 crore devotees

New Delhi : Maha Kumbh, which happens once in every 12 years, is set to grace the Prayagraj city of Uttar Pradesh and security arrangements are on full swing to welcome over 40 crore devotees.
The grand festivities start from today (January 13) and will continue till February 26.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed authorities to make appropriate arrangements for devotees coming to the city from nearby regions.
As per directives from Chief Minister 102 check posts have been placed on roads connecting to Prayagraj, where frisking of both vehicles and individuals will be done. Around 40,000 police personnel and cybercrime experts have created a web of surveillance powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to protect and help navigate the sea of humanity at the site, a Reuters report mentioned.
To bolster surveillance, five Vajra vehicles, 10 drones, and four anti-sabotage teams will patrol the area around the clock.
The police are also roping in advanced technology, including underwater drones and AI-enabled cameras. A total of 2,700 AI (artificial intelligence) cameras have been installed around the Kumbh area, and 113 underwater drones will monitor the waterways, according to ANI.
With over 40 crore devotees expected, the Mahakumbh will conclude on February 26. The main bathing rituals, or Shahi Snan, will take place on key auspicious dates: January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).
Mahakumbh celebrated once in every 12 year at the confluence of three holy rivers ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati.