District Magistrate of Kanpur, Jitendra Pratap Singh, has taken a proactive step by chairing a crucial review meeting in Prayagraj to assess and advance the preparations for the upcoming Magh Mela in 2026. The meeting, held at the new auditorium in Sarsaiya Ghat, brought together members of the district-level committee, various stakeholders, and association representatives to ensure the massive religious congregation is managed efficiently and sustainably.
Stringent Directives on Sanitation and Pollution
In a firm address, DM Singh made it clear that negligence at any level would not be tolerated, particularly concerning works related to cleanliness, sewage management, and pollution control in the Ganga. He issued specific instructions to the Additional Municipal Commissioner, directing an on-site inspection of bioremediation and phytoremediation works in untapped drains ahead of the mela.
To tackle pollution at source, the DM ordered a physical inspection of all sludge gates (bypass gates) installed at key locations including the tannery pumping station, Common Sewage Pumping Station (CSPS), and every operational Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). For maintaining cleanliness along the riverbanks, he instructed authorities to arrange an effective garbage disposal system to prevent illegal dumping, ensure regular cleaning of ghats, and set up temporary urinals. The duty rosters of sanitation workers are also to be strictly enforced.
Enhanced Vigilance and Monitoring Mechanisms
A major focus of the meeting was on implementing robust monitoring systems. The Assistant Engineer of Jal Nigam (Urban) was directed to ensure that all sludge gates are properly closed or sealed from a vigilance perspective before the commencement of Magh Mela-2026. For continuous surveillance, CCTV cameras must be installed at these critical points, with provisions for regular review of the footage.
Regarding the enforcement of the closure roster for polluting units, the DM revealed that eight dedicated inspection teams have been formed in the district. These teams are mandated to inspect their assigned areas between midnight and 2 AM on the day preceding a scheduled closure. They must submit their inspection reports directly to the Pollution Control Department. Furthermore, inspection by each team before every main bathing day during the closure period has been made mandatory. The Pollution Control Department itself will carry out special monitoring of gates at closed tanneries.
Strict Action Promised Against Violators
DM Jitendra Pratap Singh issued a stern warning, stating that strictest action would be taken against any tannery, industry, or institution found violating government or National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives. He emphasized that in such cases, the responsibility would also be fixed on the concerned area's inspection team, ensuring accountability at all levels.
The meeting also finalized the closure roster for Magh Mela-2026, which includes four-day closures aligned with major bathing dates:
- Paush Purnima: December 31, 2025, to January 3, 2026
- Makar Sankranti: January 12 to 15, 2026
- Mauni Amavasya: January 15 to 18, 2026
- Basant Panchami: January 20 to 23, 2026
- Maghi Purnima: January 29 to February 1, 2026
- Maha Shivratri: February 12 to 15, 2026
This comprehensive review underscores the administration's commitment to hosting an environmentally safe and clean Magh Mela, balancing spiritual traditions with ecological responsibility.
