The Prayagraj Mela administration has successfully concluded the crucial land allotment process for the upcoming Magh Mela 2026, giving a significant thrust to the preparations for the massive annual religious congregation. The mela is scheduled to commence on January 3.
Land Distribution Across Sectors Finalized
According to the mela authorities, land has been allotted to approximately 4,900 institutions and organisations for the event. Out of these, facility slips have already been issued to nearly 4,200 institutions, ensuring they can begin setting up their camps. The administration reported that around 500 new institutions have been included in the allotment process this year.
With the allotment formalities complete, the focus has now shifted to the speedy issuance of the remaining facility slips. This is to ensure that all setups are completed within the prescribed timeline before the devotees start arriving.
Sector-Wise Breakdown of Allotments
The distribution of land across the mela's various sectors reveals interesting patterns. Sector 6, which is the largest area in the mela grounds, received the highest number of allotments, accommodating close to 1,000 institutions. It was closely followed by Sector 5, which has allotted space to about 800 institutions.
In contrast, Sector 1, encompassing the sacred Sangam area, has the lowest number of institutional allotments. This sector is primarily reserved for the camps of prominent seers and the operational offices and camps of essential departments like the Police Line, Public Works Department (PWD), Electricity Department, Irrigation Department (Flood Division), and Jal Nigam.
Additional allotments have been made along key access routes such as Khadanja Marg, Sangam Upper Marg, and Akshayvat Marg. Organisations that run community kitchens, known as bhandaras, have been accommodated in this area. Furthermore, a dedicated vending zone has been developed around the Bade Hanuman Temple area.
Sector 2 houses the central mela administration office, camps for senior administrative officers, Shankaracharyas, and other revered seers. Land has also been allotted in zones under the Shastri Bridge and near the old railway bridge.
Notably, no land has been allotted to institutions in Sector 3 and the Parade Ground area, as these are reserved exclusively for commercial activities during the mela. Sector 4 will accommodate seers associated with Khak Chowk along with other religious personalities.
Combined, Sectors 5 and 6 account for allotments to nearly 1,850 institutions. Sector 7, located across the rivers Ganga and Yamuna, has so far provided space for approximately 300 institutions.
Steady Growth Since 2019 Kumbh
The data indicates a consistent upward trend in participation since the grand Kumbh Mela of 2019. Over the past five years, the number of institutions seeking and receiving land for the Magh Mela has seen a remarkable surge. The figure has essentially doubled from 2,380 institutions in 2020 to 4,900 in 2026, reflecting the event's growing scale and spiritual significance.
The traditional Prayagwals, the local priestly community, have been allotted land in all sectors except the commercially designated Sector 3. Their camps are vital as they largely host the Kalpvasis—devotees who undertake a month-long period of prayer and penance, staying in makeshift camps along the riverbanks.
Infrastructure Work on War Footing
With only a few days left for the mela to begin, development work on the ground is reportedly in its final stages. All concerned departments are actively executing their tasks. This includes the Jal Nigam's work on laying water supply and sewer lines, the PWD's construction projects, the Electricity Department's wiring and lighting, and the Health Department's efforts in constructing toilet facilities.
The progress was reviewed on a recent Friday, following which the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure all pending work is completed in a timely manner. Officials from every department are now working on a war footing to meet the deadline.
Mela Adhikari Rishi Raj confirmed that the land allotment process is fully complete. He stated that the administration's efforts are now concentrated on the timely issuance of facility slips to all allotted parties, ensuring a smooth and organized setup for the mammoth religious fair.
