Yogi govt sets new cleanliness benchmark at Mahakumbh, disposes 14,000 MT of solid waste

Lucknow : Under the efficient management of the Yogi government, Mahakumbh 2025 is setting new standards in cleanliness. So far, 14,000 metric tons of solid waste have been successfully disposed of, reflecting the government’s commitment to a ‘Swachh Mahakumbh’ vision.

Notably, the fair administration is leaving no stone unturned to implement Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of maintaining a hygienic and well-managed Mahakumbh.

According to OSD Mahakumbh Mela, lakhs of devotees have been residing in the fair area since the event began, while crores more visit daily from across India and the world to take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam.

Given the massive footfall, the administration is focusing on upholding the highest cleanliness standards and ensuring waste management is carried out efficiently on a daily basis.

Akanksha Rana, Swachhta Pramukh (OSD Mahakumbh Mela), highlighted that many devotees follow the tradition of leaving their clothes at the ghats after a holy dip and wearing new ones. Additionally, large-scale food distribution, food zones, and heavy footfall generate a substantial amount of waste, making daily waste management and disposal a significant challenge.

She added that to address this challenge, a comprehensive sanitation plan was devised at the start of the fair, emphasizing solid waste management. As part of the plan, 120 tippers and compactors were procured for efficient waste transportation, and 25,000 dustbins were placed every 50 meters, each equipped with liner bags replaced three times daily. Waste is collected using tippers and trolleys and transported to transfer stations, where it is compacted before being sent to a municipal corporation-operated waste processing plant for further treatment.

According to reports, over 14,000 metric tons of waste has already been collected and sent to the Baswar Treatment Plant. In comparison, only 9,000 metric tons of waste was processed during the 2019 Mahakumbh. This year, the total solid waste generation is expected to exceed 20,000 metric tons.

All public toilets are being maintained by scanning QR codes. Additionally, ganga sevadoots (sanitation volunteers) scan QR codes through the app to upload feedback, which is monitored in the control room for quick resolution.

To ensure efficient waste management, an advanced ICT-based monitoring system is being used for real-time tracking through a mobile-based app. Public toilets are maintained using a QR code scanning system, where sanitation volunteers scan codes to provide feedback, which is then monitored and addressed by the control room.

To promote a plastic-free Mahakumbh, the Prayagraj Mela Authority has distributed eco-friendly materials worth Rs 5 crore, including leaf plates, clay cups, jute bags, and paper glasses to Akhadas, institutions, and food stalls. Additionally, plastic-free branding has been introduced for banners and hoardings, and strict measures have been taken to encourage biodegradable alternatives.

For maintaining hygiene and cleanliness, the Mela administration has implemented a Modified Advanced Oxidation Technique, a odor-free waste management process. Several cleaning agents are also being used, including 39,000 kg of malathion dust, 70,000 liters of phenyl concentrate, 1,600 kg of naphthalene balls, 3.5 lakh kg of bleaching powder, 70,800 liters of acid and Harpic, 95.85 liters of odor control solution.