Kolkata: With the Kumbh Mela not being held this year, Gangasagar Mela 2025 is expected to draw a record number of pilgrims from across the country. In view of the anticipated surge, the South 24-Parganas district administration has put in place its most extensive security, surveillance and infrastructure arrangements to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience.
For the first time, thermal imaging and night-vision drones will be deployed on a large scale across the mela grounds and over the Muriganga river, enabling round-the-clock aerial surveillance. An advanced Pilgrim Transport Management System (PTMS) has also been introduced to track the live movement of all buses, ambulances, vessels, barges and launches operating in the area. Any deviation by watercraft from their designated routes will immediately trigger alerts.
To strengthen crowd management, around 1,200 CCTV cameras are being installed at key locations. Metal and temporary barricades are being set up to regulate pilgrim movement, while directional signages are being placed along major roads, mela zones and pilgrim facilities to ensure smooth navigation.
South 24-Parganas District Magistrate Arvind Kumar Mina said special measures have been taken to address fog-related challenges. High-intensity lights are being installed along the Muriganga river stretch from Lot 8 to Kachuberia. In addition, the power department’s tower on the river has been illuminated, and the dredged navigation channel has been clearly marked to prevent vessels from straying.
The administration has also begun preparations for Gangasagar Mela 2026, considering the severe coastal erosion at Sagar Island. Around 70 per cent of pilgrim movement is proposed to be diverted towards Beach No. 1. A 450-metre-long and 3-metre-wide temporary pathway is being constructed to connect Beach 1A with Beach 1, allowing pilgrims to safely proceed towards the Kapil Muni Temple after the holy dip.
Sundarban Police District Superintendent Dr Koteswara Rao said a new bus stand has been developed at Sagar, which will help streamline pilgrim movement up to Kachuberia. The security setup will include watch towers, motorcycle patrols, drop gates, plainclothes personnel, anti-crime teams and rapid response mobile units.
For disaster preparedness, around 2,500 civil defence volunteers will be deployed, supported by quick response teams, deep divers, the Indian Navy, SDRF, NDRF and the Coast Guard. These arrangements aim to ensure swift response to any emergency situation.
Healthcare and sanitation facilities have also been strengthened. The mela area will have enhanced cleanliness measures, along with air and water ambulances on standby to handle medical emergencies.
The Gangasagar Mela will be held from January 8 to January 17, with the holy dip scheduled from 1:14 pm on January 14 to 1:14 pm on January 15.
With the use of modern technology, multi-layered security and forward-looking planning, the administration aims to strike a balance between faith, safety and efficient management, positioning Gangasagar as one of India’s most secure and well-organised religious gatherings.
