Prayagraj, Jan 15 (IANS): Prayagraj is experiencing a significant influx of pilgrims for the Magh Mela in 2026, coinciding with Makar Sankranti and Shattila Ekadashi, with about 15 lakh devotees having participated by 8 a.m. Wednesday.
Over 2 crore pilgrims are expected this year, highlighting the event’s spiritual and cultural significance. Despite chilly weather, devotees from various sacred cities, including Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Mathura, have traveled to the Sangam for the holy dip.
To manage the large crowds, security measures have been enhanced, with prohibitions on four-wheeled vehicles since January 13. Security personnel, including mounted police and water police, are actively deployed, and AI-based cameras are monitoring crowd behavior.
However, the festivities have faced challenges with fire incidents; on Wednesday, a fire in tents at the Brahmasthan area destroyed two tents and partially damaged another, likely caused by a lit lamp, following a prior large fire due to a short circuit that affected 15 tents and 20 shops.
The Magh Mela, ongoing since January 3 and continuing until Maha Shivaratri on February 15, reflects the unwavering faith and devotion of millions participating annually.
