Prayagraj: In order to preserve the cleanliness and sanctity of the Sangam, the Kumbh Mela administration is all set to deploy 500 dedicated Ganga Praharis. As the Maha Kumbh dates inches closer and the flow of devotees increases with every passing day, these Ganga Praharis will also serve as vigilant custodians of river cleanliness 24/7.
Sangam city has around 25 ghats, which will witness an overwhelming influx of devotees during Maha Kumbh, maintaining the cleanliness of these ghats, along with the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, will be a significant challenge for the mela administration. However, the Ganga Praharis stationed at each ghat are resolute in their commitment. Working in teams of 15-20 at each ghat and operating in shifts during the Maha Kumbh, they will not only clean the rivers and ghats but also educate pilgrims on the importance of preserving river sanctity.
Additionally, over 200 specially trained Ganga Praharis from across the country are being deployed to ensure no manpower shortage in this monumental effort. Under the Namami Gange project in Prayagraj, the ‘Ganga Praharis' are dedicated to ensure cleanliness of rivers and ghats while conserving aquatic life, in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute.
Chandra Kumar Nishad, Assistant Coordinator of the Jalaj Yojana, said, "The team conducts round-the-clock cleanliness drives, using nets to remove waste from the rivers and ghats. They also educate devotees to maintain cleanliness by refraining from throwing waste or flower garlands into the rivers. If garbage is discarded, it is promptly retrieved using Turan nets and other tools." He added, "Former hunters of aquatic life, such as turtles and dolphins, are now their protectors, leading to a rise in the population of these species, which play a natural role in keeping the rivers clean."
Through initiatives under the Arth Ganga Yojana (Jalaj Yojana), local women receive free training in skills like sewing, beauty services, and making incense sticks and jute bags. Over 700 women from 100–150 villages have already been linked to these training programmes.
Meanwhile, men are assigned tasks beyond traditional diving roles and receive financial assistance and honorariums during Maha Kumbh. These initiatives have reduced the community's reliance on the rivers, transforming them into active stewards of river protection.
Nishad also emphasised that the ‘Ganga Prahari' are fully trained for the Maha Kumbh. Beyond ensuring a clean event, they will assist pilgrims by guiding them to facilities, helping those who are lost, and directing them to the lost-and-found centre.
Additionally, the team will work alongside security personnel to monitor the ghats, promptly responding to emergencies to ensure the safety and well-being of bathers.