Magh Mela 2026 to host up to 15 crore devotees; no VIP protocol on main bathing days, says CM Yogi

Magh Mela 2026 will be held in Prayagraj from January 3 to February 15, 2026, lasting 44 days. Major bathing dates include Paush Purnima, Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Maghi Purnima and Mahashivratri.

Officials have estimate that 12 to 15 crore devotees may visit during the entire fair period. On Mauni Amavasya alone, over 3.5 crore people are expected to take a holy dip at the Sangam.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Magh Mela is not only a religious gathering but a symbol of India's Sanatan tradition, discipline, and administrative planning. He stressed that providing a safe, clean and well-managed environment for devotees is the government's top priority. He also highlighted the spiritual importance of Kalpavas, bathing, and meditation at the Sangam.

No VIP protocol on main bathing days

The Chief Minister gave clear instructions that there will be no VIP protocol on major bathing days. The Home Department has been asked to issue official notices so that all devotees are treated equally during the holy baths.

Fair area expanded, better infrastructure planned

The Magh Mela area has been expanded to around 800 hectares. Key infrastructure updates include 7 sectors (up from 5 earlier), 50 percent increase in the length of bathing ghats, 42 parking areas, 9 pontoon bridges, and improved internal roads and traffic flow.

High-tech crowd and security management

To manage crowds and security around 450 CCTV cameras are being installed, AI-based surveillance and real-time crowd monitoring, deployment of police, SDRF, and NDRF teams, strict action against rumour spreaders, and Police personnel will receive special training to ensure devotee-friendly behavior.

First-time tech features at Magh Mela

Magh Mela 2026 will introduce several new technologies that include an app-based bike taxi service, QR code-based identification on electric poles, advanced power supply systems, Geo-tube technology to prevent riverbank erosion and prefabricated sewage treatment plants.

Strong focus on cleanliness and environment

The government has announced a complete ban on single-use plastic, 16,650 toilets including separate facilities for women, 3,300 sanitation workers deployed 24x7, Zero Liquid Discharge system to protect Ganga and Yamuna, and sanitation workers will be paid within 15 days without delay.

Healthcare and emergency services

Medical facilities at the fair will include two hospitals with 20 beds each, 12 first-aid centers, 50 ambulanes and Ayurvedic and Homeopathic treatment units, and mock drills will be conducted before the event to handle emergencies.

Cultural events and rare manuscripts to be highlights

The Tourism and Culture Department will organise folk dances, folk theatre, bhajans and Ramleela; exhibitions on 19th and 20th century Magh Mela record; display of rare manuscripts linked to Sanatan tradition and spirituality.

Preparations to be completed by December 31

CM Yogi has directed all departments to complete preparations by December 31, 2025. Senior officials, including Principal Secretaries and the ADG (Law & Order) will personally review arrangements on the ground.