Maha Kumbh 2025 Concludes on Maha Shivratri: Devotees Gather at Triveni Sangam for Final Holy Dip

Prayagraj: The grand Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 concluded on February 26, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. Devotees in massive numbers thronged the Triveni Sangam in the early hours to take part in the final ‘snan’ (holy dip), marking the end of the world’s largest religious congregation.

The six-week-long festival, which commenced on January 13, saw millions of pilgrims, saints, and tourists participating in various rituals. The last day of the Mela witnessed an extraordinary rush, prompting authorities to intensify security measures across the region.

Final Day of Maha Kumbh 2025: Key Highlights

1. Massive Devotee Turnout: From the early hours of Wednesday, lakhs of devotees flocked to the Triveni Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—for the concluding ‘Amrit snan’ of Maha Kumbh.

2. Traffic Restrictions: Given the overwhelming footfall, the entire Kumbh Mela zone was declared a ‘no vehicle zone’ to ensure smooth movement and safety.

3. Security Arrangements: DIG (Kumbh) Vaibhav Krishna confirmed that a comprehensive security plan was in place, with no special privileges granted to VIPs. Over 37,000 police personnel and 14,000 home guards were deployed to manage the crowd and prevent untoward incidents.

4. Advisory for Devotees: The Uttar Pradesh government issued directives for pilgrims, advising them to use designated ghats based on their entry routes. For example, those arriving from Uttar Jhunsi were guided to Harishchandra Ghat and Old GT Ghat, while others were directed to alternative ghats to prevent overcrowding.

5. AI-Based Surveillance: Around 2,750 AI-powered CCTV cameras, 50 watch towers, and multiple Jal Police stations were set up to monitor the event and enhance security. Additionally, a 24x7 social media monitoring team was deployed to curb misinformation.

6. Special Railway Arrangements: To accommodate the surge in passengers, Indian Railways ran over 350 additional trains from Prayagraj. Previously, over 360 special trains were operated on Mauni Amavasya, facilitating safe transit for more than 20 lakh passengers.

7. Precautions Against Stampedes: Following recent stampede incidents at religious gatherings, authorities from North Central Railway, North Eastern Railway, and Northern Railways were put on high alert. Enhanced security arrangements were implemented at major railway stations.

8. Fire Safety Measures: Due to multiple fire-related incidents during the Mela, authorities established 50 fire stations and 20 fire posts as precautionary measures. Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma assured that emergency response teams were prepared to handle any contingencies.

9. Government Oversight: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw personally oversaw the railway operations, while the Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, Satish Kumar, coordinated on-ground logistics.

10. CM Yogi Adityanath’s Message: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his wishes to devotees, emphasizing the significance of Maha Shivratri in promoting spiritual growth and unity. He reiterated the importance of religious festivals in preserving India’s cultural heritage.

With the conclusion of Maha Kumbh 2025, Prayagraj witnessed one of the largest spiritual gatherings in history, successfully managed with extensive planning and security. The event not only reinforced the deep-rooted faith of millions but also highlighted the meticulous arrangements made by the administration to ensure a safe and sacred experience for all participants.