Prayagraj Administration Intensifies Preparations for Mahashivratri at Magh Mela 2026
With Mahashivratri scheduled for February 15, 2026, which falls on a Sunday, the Prayagraj administration has significantly ramped up its preparations to ensure safety, efficient crowd management, and strict traffic regulation. This day marks the final and most significant bathing day of the annual Magh Mela, which commenced on January 3, 2026, and will formally conclude with the Mahashivratri snan. Authorities are bracing for an expected massive turnout of devotees, necessitating comprehensive security and logistical measures.
Enhanced Police and Administrative Coordination
Police Commissioner Jogendra Kumar has issued detailed instructions to police and administrative officials to manage the anticipated rush. Peak deployment will remain effective from 8 AM on Saturday, February 14, and continue until 8 AM on February 16. Coordination with the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) and other intelligence agencies has been strengthened, with intensive checking being carried out at all sensitive points to prevent any untoward incidents.
Additional Police Commissioner Ajaypal Sharma has instructed officials to launch special drives against unauthorized vendors and beggars near the ghats to prevent congestion and ensure smooth movement of pilgrims. Given the expected high footfall at prominent Shiva temples, including Mankameshwar Temple, Nagvasuki Temple, and Someshwar Mahadev Temple, duties have been categorized sector-wise for better management.
Crowd Management and Traffic Regulations
To streamline the flow of devotees, separate queues for men and women will be ensured, and exit routes are being optimized to reduce crowd pressure. Authorities will deploy LED screens and a public address system to guide pilgrims and prevent bottlenecks. SP (Mela) Neeraj Pandey noted that while most temporary sectors of the mela area have been vacated, a gathering of 15 to 16 lakh devotees is anticipated on the final bathing day.
Key parking zones, including helipad parking, Galla Mandi parking, Kisan parking, and plot 17 parking, will remain operational to manage the influx of vehicles. Traffic arrangements have been tightened under the supervision of ADCP Pushkar Verma. The mela area will be declared a no-vehicle zone from Saturday midnight to midnight on February 16, with entry prohibited for all private, heavy, and light vehicles, except for administrative and medical services.
Infrastructure and Security Measures
Inter-district diversion plans will redirect vehicles before they reach Prayagraj limits, while the traffic control room and Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) will monitor congestion on key routes, including the Old Bridge. Mela Officer Rishiraj has directed that all 12 bathing ghats be fully prepared, with straw layering and improved changing rooms completed in advance.
Each major temple will have dedicated security personnel, along with a magistrate, to supervise crowd management and ensure order. Officials have affirmed that all arrangements are in place to meet devotees' expectations and ensure that the concluding day of Magh Mela 2026 passes peacefully and safely, emphasizing a commitment to public welfare and religious harmony.
