Mon Feb 03 02:27:00 UTC 2025: ## Millions Take Holy Dip at Maha Kumbh Amidst Tight Security

**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India** – Over 16 lakh devotees participated in the third and final “Amrit Snan” at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj today, marking the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami. This brings the total number of pilgrims who have taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam since the Kumbh began on January 13th to an estimated 35 crore (350 million). Authorities anticipate at least three crore more devotees will participate throughout the day.

Following a recent stampede that resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries, authorities have implemented stringent security measures and crowd control strategies. Every available personnel has been deployed, including 270 trainee Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, to manage the massive influx of pilgrims. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been monitoring the situation closely from a war room in Lucknow.

To prevent overcrowding, VVIP movements have been restricted, and pilgrims are being encouraged to use various ghats rather than concentrating on specific locations. Aerial surveys are being conducted to monitor crowd sizes.

Extensive transport arrangements have been made, with the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) deploying 2,500 buses to facilitate the smooth return of devotees. A dedicated fleet of shuttle buses will also operate between temporary bus stations and key locations.

A comprehensive medical plan is in place, with over 1,200 medical personnel stationed at the fairground. Chief Minister Adityanath has directed that all medical staff remain on duty until February 5th to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims. Ambulance services and backup plans are in place to handle any medical emergencies. Two more special “snans” are scheduled for February 12th (Maghi Purnima) and February 26th (Mahashivratri), before the Maha Kumbh concludes on February 26th. The UP government has emphasized that the safety and health of the devotees are paramount.

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