The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, has once again showcased Bharat’s ability to host millions of devotees while maintaining impeccable cleanliness and sustainability. Despite initial skepticism from some Western media outlets, the event has proven to be a shining example of meticulous planning, innovative sanitation measures, and the tireless efforts of thousands of workers. The Prayagraj Mela Authority, along with the Uttar Pradesh government, has left no stone unturned to ensure that the sacred event remains clean, hygienic, and environmentally friendly.
Unprecedented sanitation efforts
The Prayagraj Mela Authority has deployed nearly 15,000 sanitation workers and 150 Ganga Sewa Doots (volunteers) to maintain cleanliness across the sprawling Kumbh area. These workers, often the unsung heroes of the event, have been working round-the-clock to ensure that the holy rivers and ghats remain pristine for the millions of devotees taking the sacred dip.
Prem Kumar, a sanitation worker, shared, “We are picking trash from the Ganga. I started this duty on January 5 and will continue till the end of Maha Kumbh.” Volunteers like Khusboo are also playing a crucial role, separating flowers and other offerings from the river to keep the water clean for other devotees. “We have a big team, and our members are present on every ghat, continuously carrying out the task,” she added.
Advanced sanitation infrastructure
The Mela Authority has set up an impressive 1.5 lakh toilets and urinals across the Kumbh area, ensuring that devotees have access to clean and hygienic facilities. These toilets are equipped with jet spray cleaning systems and are monitored through a QR code-based system. Any reports of unclean facilities trigger immediate action via a dedicated app, ensuring swift resolution. Additionally, 1,500 Ganga Sevadoots inspect each toilet twice daily, scanning QR codes and reporting on cleanliness, water availability, and structural integrity.
Eco-friendly innovations
In a bid to reduce the environmental impact, the Mela Authority has introduced eco-friendly equipment that operates without fuel or electricity. Manual walk-behind sweeping machines and battery-operated vacuum-type litter pickers are being used to clean roads, ghats, and public spaces. These machines are not only efficient but also ergonomically designed to ensure the comfort of sanitation workers.
The battery-operated vacuum-type litter picker, for instance, is a compact, ride-on device that effectively collects litter and debris. Its powerful suction functionality ensures quick waste collection, while its durable battery minimizes carbon emissions. Similarly, manual sweeping machines clean paved areas without raising dust, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.
Mosquito-free Maha Kumbh: Health and hygiene
To ensure the health and well-being of devotees, the health department has deployed 110 state-of-the-art blower mist machines and 107 mini fogging machines to eradicate mosquitoes and flies. These machines can eliminate insects within 30 minutes of receiving a call, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for all. Additionally, 45 malaria inspectors and 28 assistant malaria inspectors have been stationed to address any health-related challenges.
Ganga Praharis: Guardians of the river
Under the Namami Gange project, 500 Ganga Praharis have been deployed to maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the rivers and ghats. These vigilant custodians work in shifts, conducting round-the-clock cleanliness drives and educating devotees on the importance of preserving the river’s purity. Using nets, they remove waste from the rivers and ghats, ensuring that the holy waters remain clean for the millions of devotees.
Swachhta Mitra Suraksha Bima Scheme
Recognizing the invaluable contribution of sanitation workers, the Mela Authority has introduced the Swachhta Mitra Suraksha Bima Scheme, providing comprehensive health and life insurance coverage for all sanitation workers and sailors involved in the Maha Kumbh. This initiative ensures their safety and security during the mega event, offering them a sense of dignity and protection.
Praise from devotees and sadhus
The tireless efforts of the sanitation and electrical workers have not gone unnoticed. Devotees have expressed their deep appreciation for the workers who ensure that the Kumbh Mela remains clean and functional. Revered sadhus have also blessed the workers, boosting their morale and dedication.
Proving the naysayers wrong
Bloomberg in an article wrote, “One big challenge looms over the event — dealing with the sheer volume of human waste generated by such a gathering. The Ganges is already known for its heavy pollution levels, and past festivals have turned into a breeding ground for disease due to inadequate waste-disposal measures.” – trying to portray the Maha Kumbh as a failure even before it began.
Despite skepticism from such Western media outlets, the Maha Kumbh Mela has proven to be a model of cleanliness and sustainability. The event has demonstrated Bharat’s ability to manage large-scale gatherings with precision and care, debunking the narrative that such events are inherently chaotic or unmanageable. The innovative use of technology, eco-friendly equipment, and the dedication of thousands of workers have set a new benchmark for cleanliness at mass gatherings.
The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is not just a spiritual gathering but also a testament to Bharat’s commitment to cleanliness, sustainability, and innovation. The efforts of the sanitation workers, the advanced infrastructure, and the eco-friendly initiatives have ensured that the event remains a memorable and hygienic experience for all.
(Featured Image Source: Aaj Tak)
