Ensure Mahakumbh’s security, boost intelligence, act swiftly against Mafia and their henchmen: CM Yogi

Lucknow : During a review meeting on Monday, CM Yogi highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a “safe Maha Kumbh” and instructed officials to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the need for thorough police verification of taxi, auto, and e-rickshaw drivers operating in Prayagraj ahead of the Mahakumbh. He directed the UP Police to enhance intelligence efforts and maintain close coordination with central security agencies.

Stressing the importance of intensified action against mafia associates in the region, the CM urged that such measures be prioritized before the event.

He reviewed the deployment of 20,000 police personnel, calling for their training and stressing the need for robust fire safety, ghat security, medical assistance, and anti-drone measures. He also directed the formulation of an action plan to address traffic congestion in Prayagraj, with increased foot patrolling and the removal of stray animals from the fairgrounds.

The CM set January 5 as the deadline for completing the reconstruction and strengthening of all roads leading to Prayagraj, particularly routes from Ayodhya, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Mirzapur. He warned against any delays and instructed strict action to remove encroachments along these routes.

Updating on progress, he expressed satisfaction that 12 of 14 bridges by Setu Nigam were complete, with the remaining two targeted for completion by January 5. Dredging at Sangam Nose and laying water supply pipelines in the fair area must be completed by December 30. He also called for the timely repair of roads, beautification of dividers, and ensuring a continuous supply of clean water across all sectors of the fairgrounds.

So far, 22 pontoon bridges have been made operational, with the remaining ones expected to be ready within a week. During his one-day visit, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also inaugurated one-way traffic on the Subedarganj Bridge in Prayagraj. Inspecting the bridge, the CM’s convoy then proceeded to the civil airport.

Initially scheduled for completion by December 31, with the second lane due by Makar Sankranti, the bridge was finished a week ahead of schedule. The construction of the Subedarganj Bridge has cost over Rs 350 crore.

In a meeting with public representatives and senior officials at the ICCC auditorium, the Chief Minister inquired about the status of land allotments for Akharas, religious institutions, and saints.

The Mela Adhikari reported that land has been allocated to all Akharas. The CM emphasized that all necessary facilities should be provided by the rules. He also instructed that requests from various states for setting up camps during the Mahakumbh should be addressed promptly, with proper verification before allotting land to new institutions.

The CM highlighted that Mahakumbh presents a unique opportunity to showcase Sanatan Indian culture to the world while setting a standard for cleanliness, safety, and convenience.

Emphasizing the importance of a ‘Swachh Mahakumbh,’ he urged public representatives to actively participate in ensuring the cleanliness of Prayagraj. To manage the massive influx of visitors, over 7,000 buses will be deployed, and more than 1.5 lakh toilets will be installed. The CM directed the strengthening of the cleanliness system by deploying 10,000 employees.