Maha Kumbh 2025: Uttar Pradesh Puts Prayagraj on High Medical Alert Ahead of Basant Panchami Amrit Snan

Mahakumbh Nagar, Feb 2 (PTI) – Ahead of the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan, the third and final Amrit Snan of the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government has placed the entire Prayagraj division’s medical infrastructure on high alert to ensure the safety of millions of devotees.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed that all medical personnel across Mahakumbh Nagar and Prayagraj remain vigilant to handle any health emergencies during this massive religious gathering.

Heightened Security After January 29 Stampede​

The move comes in the wake of the tragic stampede at Sangam on January 29, which resulted in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries due to overcrowding. In response, authorities have intensified preparations to an all-time high, ensuring that medical and emergency teams are fully equipped to handle large crowds.

More than 1,200 medical professionals have been deployed in Mahakumbh Nagar and will remain stationed at the fairground until February 6. A backup medical plan has also been put in place to handle emergencies.

Hospitals on High Alert and Medical Facilities Strengthened​

A four-member special medical team has inspected all hospitals within the fairground to ensure adequate medicine stocks and functional medical equipment. Additionally, Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital and Tej Bahadur Sapru Hospital have been placed on high alert.

Key Medical Preparations at Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital:​

• 500 medical personnel on standby
• 150 beds reserved for emergencies
• 60 resident doctors on 24-hour alert
• 30 CT scan machines, MRI, and ultrasound facilities ready
• 200-unit blood bank set up with an alarm system for quick response

Dr. Gaurav Dubey, the nodal officer for medical services at the Maha Kumbh, highlighted that ambulance services and emergency response teams are playing a crucial role. "In case of any medical emergency, patients will be swiftly transferred to Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital or Tej Bahadur Sapru Hospital (Bailey Hospital)," he stated.

Medical Emergency Teams and Continuous Monitoring​

A special medical inspection team, led by senior medical officers, is overseeing the healthcare arrangements at the Kumbh Mela fairground. The team includes:

• Dr. Umakant Sanyal – Nodal Medical Officer
• Dr. Manoj Kaushik – Chief Medical Superintendent, Central Hospital
• Dr. Ram Singh – Assistant Nodal Medical Officer
• Dr. Gaurav Dubey – Medical Establishment Officer, Maha Kumbh

Additionally, 50 ambulances have been stationed across the venue, with teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police assisting in emergency medical operations.

Robust Medical Infrastructure at Maha Kumbh​

To accommodate the healthcare needs of millions of pilgrims, the Maha Kumbh features a well-equipped medical infrastructure, including:

• 1 central hospital with 100 beds
• 2 sub-central hospitals with 25 beds each
• 8 sector hospitals with 20 beds each
• 2 infectious disease hospitals with 20 beds each
• 10 first-aid posts across the fairground

Maha Kumbh 2025 Witnesses Record-Breaking Crowds​

So far, the Maha Kumbh 2025 has welcomed over 330 million visitors, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in history. The event, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26, with two more special Snans scheduled:

• Maghi Purnima – February 12
• Maha Shivratri – February 26

To ensure doctors and medical staff remain available at all times, the government has made special accommodation and food arrangements for them at Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital. Medical personnel have been strictly instructed not to leave their posts until February 5.

With enhanced medical preparedness, strengthened healthcare facilities, and continuous monitoring, the Uttar Pradesh government is prioritizing the safety and well-being of devotees attending the Maha Kumbh 2025.