Mahakumbh’s 3rd Amrit Snan: ‘Operation Eleven’ launched for crowd control
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Mahakumbh Nagar: To manage the vast influx of devotees for the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami, the Uttar Pradesh government has launched a special crowd management initiative, ‘Operation Eleven.’ Implemented under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, this initiative aims to ensure the safety and convenience of the pilgrims while maintaining order during the major event at Mahakumbh.
A one-way route system has been introduced to streamline the movement of devotees and avoid congestion. Special arrangements are in place, especially on the pontoon bridges, to provide a smooth and hassle-free experience for those crossing. In addition, extra police forces have been deployed at key locations, particularly at the Triveni ghats, to prevent overcrowding, while senior officials will be overseeing the situation to ensure smooth operations.
Operation Eleven: Special crowd management plan for Mahakumbh
1. Strict One-Way Route Implementation:
On Basant Panchami, a strict one-way traffic system will be enforced to facilitate smooth movement and prevent overcrowding. Key routes will see traffic diversions, and pontoon bridges will remain operational, equipped with additional police personnel and barricades at major ghats for effective crowd management.
2. Enhanced Security at Key Locations:
Security measures have been bolstered at the New Yamuna Bridge, with a PAC unit, led by an additional gazetted officer, stationed to control traffic from Naini towards Sangam. Two motorcycle patrol squads will be active in the area, and the bridge’s side railings have been reinforced to avoid accidents.
3. Surveillance on Shastri Setu:
A PAC company and a gazetted officer will be on duty to manage traffic from Jhunsi towards Sangam. Motorcycle patrol squads will be deployed to ensure smooth movement and manage crowds.
4. Traffic Control at Tikarmafi Turn:
A CAPF unit, under a gazetted officer, will be stationed at Tikarmafi Turn to divert traffic towards Katka Tiraha, Jiraph Crossing, Chhatnag Turn, and Samudrakup Turn. Road dividers have been leveled to assist the movement of devotees.
5. Arrangements at Phaphamau and Pontoon Bridges:
Two motorcycle patrol teams will monitor the crowd flow at Phaphamau and Pontoon bridges, while PAC personnel will manage crowd movement at entry and exit points.
6. Security at Railway Stations and Bus Terminals:
Special arrangements at Jhunsi railway station include PAC deployment under a gazetted officer’s supervision. Strong barricading has been set up, and the frequency of trains has been increased to accommodate the heavy flow of pilgrims.
7. Bus Operations in Jhunsi Area:
A temporary bus station at Saraswati Dwar will provide services to Gorakhpur and Varanasi. Reserved buses will be stationed in Jhunsi overnight, and shuttle buses will operate between Andawa, Saraswati Dwar, and Sahson to ensure smooth transportation for devotees.
8. Security at Prayag Junction:
Police and PAC units have been deployed at Prayag Junction, and traffic has been diverted at Yudhishthir intersection to manage the flow. Adequate signage has been placed for the guidance of devotees.
9. Crowd Control at Key Intersections:
Police forces and PAC have been stationed at important intersections like GT Jawahar and Harshvardhan squares. Diversions will guide devotees from Balsan via Bakshi Dam to Nagvasuki and Stanley Road, ensuring organized movement towards the Mela grounds.
10. Additional Security and Traffic Measures:
Extra police and traffic personnel have been deployed at Andawa and Sahso intersections. Nine motorcycle squads will monitor the areas, and cranes have been stationed for emergency situations.
11. Deployment of Additional Security Forces:
For the third Amrit Snan, two companies of RAF and three companies of PAC have been deployed, with gazetted officers overseeing sensitive locations. A total of 56 Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and 15 motorcycle patrol squads will ensure swift response and effective patrolling across the region.
With the special measures under ‘Operation Eleven,’ authorities are determined to ensure a safe, orderly, and successful event for all pilgrims participating in the third Amrit Snan at Mahakumbh.
With IANS inputs