PRAYAGRAJ: The Prayagraj police have enhanced security arrangements throughout the mela premises and the city as the Maha Kumbh draws near. Strategic positioning of armoured vehicles with Mounted Light Machine Guns (LMGs) at crucial city entrance points has been implemented, alongside comprehensive security checks for visitors.
“Ahead of Kumbh, city police have intensified checking at the city’s entry points and crossings while deputing armoured vehicles with Mounted LMGs. These armoured vehicles will change location every two hours,” said DCP (City) Abhishek Bharti.
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The authorities have established checkpoints at seven primary routes to Sangam for speed monitoring and security screening.
Bharti further said: “City police have also set up ‘Police Morcha’ at five static points, including Mandar Turn, Chaufatka, Hindu Hostel and Stanley Road, to take on unwanted elements. Armed police jawans are positioned at these morchas.”
The security operation involves over 30,000 police personnel from 70 districts, covering approximately 4,000 hectares across 25 sectors. Additional mobile forces are stationed at strategic locations, with regular security assessments being conducted.
The surveillance plan includes 5,000 officers patrolling mela areas, supported by 400 women police officers specifically assigned to ensure women pilgrims’ safety. Officers work in three eight-hour shifts on the mela campus.
The authorities have arranged accommodation and meals for officers arriving from other districts. A new application has been developed as part of the Digital Maha Kumbh initiative to maintain secure records of all deployed police personnel. The application enables quick identification through facial recognition, providing immediate access to officers’ names and district assignments.