Ahead of the massive Magh Mela congregation, the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (UPSDMA) has initiated a comprehensive review of safety and preparedness measures. A key seminar and table-top exercise were organized in Prayagraj on Monday to strategize for managing the expected influx of millions of devotees.
Inter-Departmental Coordination for a Safe Mela
The program was inaugurated by UPSDMA vice chairman Yogendra Dimri, Lieutenant General (Retd). He emphasized that the safe conduct of such a large-scale public gathering hinges on seamless coordination between various government departments and agencies. The seminar saw participation from key officials, with DGP Rajeev Krishna joining via video conferencing to contribute to the critical discussions.
Key Challenges and Predictive Planning
In his address, DGP Rajeev Krishna highlighted the unique challenges posed by the Kumbh and Magh Melas, which rank among the world's largest public gatherings. He pointed out that on peak bathing days, extremely high crowd density is concentrated at limited locations along the river ghats.
"The challenge lies not only in managing numbers but also in regulating the constantly shifting and dynamic movement of crowds," the DGP stated. He identified several potential risks that often arise simultaneously during the Mela:
- Crowd congestion and stampede risks
- River-related hazards and drowning incidents
- Impact of cold wave conditions
- Fire incidents in temporary settlements
- Major traffic and parking bottlenecks
Given this complex scenario, the DGP underlined the urgent need to move beyond reactive measures. He advocated for a predictive, well-planned, and trained response system where prevention is the cornerstone of all strategy.
Scientific Crowd Management and SDRF's Role
The discussions centered on implementing scientific solutions for crowd dynamics. Key focus areas included:
Scientific planning of entry and exit routes to ensure smooth flow and prevent bottlenecks. Balanced crowd movement at bathing ghats to avoid dangerous overcrowding at any single point. Continuous monitoring of micro-crowd formations using technology and human surveillance to anticipate and disperse potential crushes.
The DGP also highlighted the evolving role of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). He stated that the SDRF has become an integral part of operational crowd safety and disaster management at the Mela, playing a pivotal role in both prevention and rapid response to any emergency.
With the seminar setting the stage, the Uttar Pradesh administration is now fine-tuning a multi-layered safety blueprint for the Magh Mela. The aim is to ensure that the spiritual event is not only memorable but also secure for every devotee braving the crowds and the winter chill of Prayagraj.
