During a review meeting on preparations for the Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj, CM Yogi said that ensuring a safe, clean, and well-organised environment for devotees coming from India and abroad is the government’s top priority.
Therefore, he directed the Home Department to ensure that no VIP protocol is allowed on major bathing days. He also said that a formal advisory must be issued in this regard.
CM Yogi mentioned that this year alone, around 15 to 25 lakh devotees will arrive as Kalpvasis. Hence, he instructed officials to ensure that no disorder or inconvenience occurs at any level. Moreover, he directed Principal Secretaries and Secretaries of all departments linked to the Magh Mela, along with the ADG of Police (Law and Order), to personally visit the mela area and review preparations. He clearly stated that all arrangements must be completed by December 31.
Meanwhile, the Prayagraj Divisional Commissioner informed the meeting that the Magh Mela will be held from January 3 to February 15, lasting 44 days. During this period, major bathing festivals such as Paush Purnima, Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Maghi Purnima, and Mahashivratri will take place. Overall, the administration expects 12 to 15 crore devotees to visit the mela. On Mauni Amavasya alone, more than 3.5 crore devotees are expected in a single day. Accordingly, arrangements are being made.
CM Yogi also instructed the Urban Development Department to ensure a zero liquid discharge system in the mela area so that the sanctity of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers remains intact. Furthermore, he stressed that all departments must work in coordination and complete tasks on time. He added that the Magh Mela should reflect a balanced blend of faith, safety, cleanliness, innovation, and sensitive administration.
AI-Based Surveillance and Crowd Management
Focusing on security and crowd control, the CM said, “modern technology must be used to the maximum extent.” Therefore, he directed officials to prepare a strong and multi-layered traffic and crowd management plan. He also instructed strict action against those spreading rumours.
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In addition, AI-based surveillance and crowd management systems are being implemented in the mela area. CM asked officials to provide proper training to police personnel to ensure courteous behaviour with devotees. He further directed the administration to take support from NSS volunteers and NCC cadets. At the same time, he stressed the need for coordination with boatmen and regulation of charges for food, transport, and other services.
New Facilities, Cleanliness Drive, and Cultural Attractions
CM Yogi said, “The Magh Mela should set a new benchmark in facilities and technology.” Accordingly, officials informed the meeting that app-based bike taxi services will be introduced for devotees. Directional signboards will be installed, and QR code–based identification will be placed on electric poles. In addition, ring main units will ensure an uninterrupted power supply, while geo-tube technology will help prevent riverbank erosion.
On cleanliness, CM Yogi strongly stressed a ban on single-use plastic and said the Magh Mela must become a model of sanitation. As part of this effort, around 16,650 toilets are being set up in the mela area. Moreover, nearly 3,300 sanitation workers will be deployed round the clock. For them, sanitation colonies, anganwadi facilities for children, and primary schools are being arranged. Importantly, the Chief Minister directed that sanitation workers’ honorarium must be paid within 15 days under all circumstances.
The Tourism and Culture Department will organise folk dances, folk theatre, bhajan-kirtan, Ramleela, and cultural programmes showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s rich heritage during the Magh Mela. Along with this, exhibitions will display folk records related to Magh Mela administration from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Rare manuscripts linked to Sanatan traditions and spirituality will also be showcased as a special attraction for devotees and visitors.
