Mamata Banerjee Leads Preparations for Gangasagar Mela 2024 with Enhanced Security Measures

Mamata Banerjee Leads Preparations for Gangasagar Mela 2024 with Enhanced Security Measures

VoM News Desk | December 27, 2023 | 10:06 PM IST | Breaking News, Politics | Follow on Google News

Mamata Banerjee Leads Preparations for Gangasagar Mela 2024 with Enhanced Security Measures/ANI

Mamata Banerjee Leads Preparations for Gangasagar Mela 2024 with Enhanced Security Measures

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee presided over a meeting at the State Secretariat, Nabanna, to discuss arrangements for the upcoming Gangasagar Mela 2024. The meeting was attended by cabinet ministers and departmental secretaries.

Banerjee announced comprehensive security measures and amenities for the fair, including stringent police vigilance, 200 kilometers of barricades, 1150 CCTV cameras, 20 drones, 2400 civil defense personnel, and 50 fire engines. Additionally, provisions include accident insurance of Rs 5 lakh per person, 6,500 volunteers, and 10,000 toilets.

The Gangasagar Mela is scheduled to commence on January 8 and conclude on January 17. Banerjee emphasized the need for close surveillance to prevent any untoward incidents during the event. She also urged the media to broadcast the aarti (prayer) live and mentioned the increase in the number of buses for pilgrims’ convenience.

Highlighting the aim of an eco-friendly and plastic-free fair, Banerjee assured the distribution of biodegradable carry bags. Medical facilities will encompass 300 beds, an intensive care unit in Sagar, and first aid provisions across the fairgrounds. Air ambulances, water ambulances, and a total of 61 ambulances have been arranged, alongside medical staff deployment.

Banerjee outlined security arrangements with 10,000 police personnel and river patrolling. She stressed restricting VIP entry in convoys to prevent crowd issues, extending the rule to VIPs from other states.

The Gangasagar Mela, rooted in ancient Indian epics, is a revered tradition celebrated during the auspicious Makar Sankranti period. Legend holds that the pilgrimage signifies liberation from the cycle of life and death. It honors Bhagirath’s efforts to free 60,000 souls by performing their last rites with holy Ganges water.

The Gangasagar Mela stands as the world’s second-largest human congregation after the Kumbh Mela. The event takes place at the confluence of the Ganga and the Bay of Bengal, drawing pilgrims to the large island located about 100 km south of Kolkata.

VoM News Desk

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