Prayagraj is under heightened security as millions of devotees converge at the Sangam Ghat to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya. The auspicious bathing ritual, which began in the early hours of Sunday, January 18, 2026, marks the third and largest bathing festival of the annual Magh Mela. Authorities estimate that between 30 million and 40 million devotees will participate in the sacred স্নান (bath).
To manage the massive influx, the Mela administration has made extensive arrangements for security, traffic, and crowd control. Bathing ghats stretching over 3.5 kilometers have been constructed to accommodate the large crowds. An additional bathing ghat, "Kali Part-2," has also been expanded. Special bathing arrangements have been made in the Nagvasuki area for devotees coming from Lucknow and Ayodhya to ease pressure on the Sangam area. In total, 24 ghats have been constructed, extending over 8 km in the Mela area. Devotees are encouraged to use the ghat nearest to them.
A multi-agency security force, including police, water police, RAF personnel, NDRF, SDRF, PAC, and divers, has been deployed to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims. Over 15,000 police personnel are assigned duties at 32 static locations. Surveillance is being conducted using AI-enabled cameras, drones, and a network of 1,524 CCTV cameras, all monitored through an Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC). A "pole-to-pole" security model has been implemented in the Sangam area, assigning security personnel to specific zones.
Traffic management plans are also in effect, with diversions on seven routes leading to the city and parking areas established at 42 locations. No vehicles are allowed beyond the designated parking areas. A zone system is being used to manage crowds, directing devotees to bathe in the sector from which they arrived and exit through a designated route. The Fort gate will be kept open to facilitate ambulance services, and two water ambulances have been deployed.
The Mela police have drafted a foolproof security plan, with temporary holding areas and overnight stay arrangements set up to manage the crowds. The infrastructure at all 24 ghats has been reinforced, with river barricading, watchtowers, improved lighting, clear signage, toilets, changing rooms, and comprehensive cleanliness measures in place.
Mauni Amavasya holds immense spiritual significance, with devotees observing a vow of silence while taking the holy dip. Astrologer Ashutosh Varshney noted the belief that 330 million deities visit Prayagraj and observe a vow of silence during the holy dip. The Amavasya Tithi began at 11:53 pm on January 17th and lasts until 1:09 am on January 18th, with bathing, fasting, chanting, and meditating during this period considered especially virtuous.
Devotees have been asked to cooperate with the Mela police, stay in their lanes, and avoid jostling. They are also urged to remain vigilant, steer clear of rumours, and report any concerns promptly. The administration has appealed to devotees to maintain cooperation and restraint.
