Mahakumbh 2025: seven-tier security in place for 40 crore devotees in Prayagraj

PRAYAGRAJ: The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a robust seven-tier security arrangement to ensure the safety of over 40 crore devotees expected to attend Mahakumbh 2025. Spanning 45 days, the event will begin on Paush Poornima, January 13, and conclude on Maha Shivratri, February 26.

Temporary police stations and checkpoints are being set up across urban and rural areas, including key locations such as railway stations, bus terminals, and airports. To enhance security, the deployment includes Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Bomb Detection and Disposal (BDD) squads, and Anti-Sabotage (AS) check teams.

Prayagraj Police Commissioner Tarun Gaba stated that 13 temporary police stations and 23 checkpoints will add to the existing infrastructure, raising the total number of police stations from 44 to 57. The city’s security framework is divided into eight zones and 18 sectors, with a workforce of around 10,000 police personnel.

Additionally, 21 companies of police forces, two reserve CAPF companies, five PAC companies, four NDRF teams, 12 AS check teams, and four BDD teams will remain active throughout the event. Reserve units will also be on standby to address any contingencies.

(with agency inputs)