In Prayagraj, the Magh Mela is now moving into its most important phase. This period stretches from Makar Sankranti to Mahashivratri. Authorities are taking major steps to boost safety on the Shastri Bridge. This bridge holds strategic importance during the massive religious gathering.
Bridge Made More Secure with New Installations
For the very first time, officials are making the bridge nearly impregnable. They are installing strong iron grills along both sides. This move aims to stop any untoward incidents from happening. The two-kilometre long Shastri Bridge plays a vital role. It passes very close to the Kalpwasi camps where many devotees stay.
Preventing Past Problems
Past incidents have prompted this action. People have thrown things like flammable materials or stones from the bridge. These objects could harm devotees camped below. The new iron grills will help prevent such dangerous acts. Additionally, the grills are meant to stop people from jumping into the river. In recent months, several individuals tried to commit suicide by jumping over the railing. The current railing is only about waist height, which is not very secure.
Directives from the Chief Minister
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath gave clear instructions during a video conference. He spoke with senior PWD officials on January 8. He directed them to ensure full security for the Kalpwasi camps. Following these orders, the PWD Construction Division-III took charge. This department was assigned the responsibility of installing the iron grills.
Departmental officials worked continuously for three days to get the job done. They followed a specific plan for the installation.
Details of the Installation Plan
The plan involves installing iron grills along nearly 1.5 kilometres on both ends of the bridge. However, a 500-metre stretch over the river Ganga is being left without grills. Officials provided an explanation for this decision.
They said the portion over the river was excluded intentionally. If anyone throws stones, pebbles, or lit cigarettes from there, these items will fall directly into the river. This way, they cause no damage to the camps below. It also eliminates any fire risk that such actions might pose.
These comprehensive measures highlight the administration's focus on safety. The Magh Mela attracts huge crowds, and such precautions are crucial. The work on Shastri Bridge is a key part of ensuring a smooth and secure event for all participants.
