image credit-Maha Kumbh
Mahakumbh Nagar-Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the preparations for Mahakumbh 2025 have taken a significant leap with a robust cleanliness and health-focused initiative. To ensure an insect-free and hygienic environment for millions of devotees, the Vector Control Unit has been deployed across the Mahakumbh Nagar. The aim is to eliminate disease-spreading mosquitoes and flies, safeguarding visitors from illnesses like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya.
The special emphasis on cleanliness aligns with the CM’s instructions to make the Mahakumbh a healthy and pleasant experience for all attendees. This initiative also tackles hygiene-related issues caused by flies, further enhancing the quality of life for participants.
Strategic Deployment and Operational Zones
To streamline operations, the vast Mahakumbh grounds have been divided into five zones, each further subdivided into five sectors, making a total of 25 sectors. Each sector is supervised by an Assistant Malaria Officer (AMO), while 35 sanitation circles ensure thorough coverage. In each circle, a Malaria Inspector oversees workers engaged in insecticide spraying and sanitation activities.
To maintain uninterrupted operations, sub-stores in each zone are stocked with a three-day supply of insecticides. Additionally, 25 vehicles have been hired to transport supplies and conduct inspections. Each vehicle, staffed by two workers and a supervisor, is assigned to a specific sector, ensuring mobility and efficiency.
Innovative Measures for Hygiene and Safety
For the first time, the Vector Control Unit will focus on spraying insecticides in parking areas, including toilets and other high-footfall zones. This innovative step ensures comprehensive hygiene beyond traditional locations. A dedicated emergency team of 45 workers has been formed to handle critical situations. This team operates in three shifts, ensuring 24×7 availability without disrupting regular operations.
Around 150 workers are deployed within a one-kilometer radius of the Mahakumbh Nagar, with anti-larva spraying and insecticide application already in full swing. The periphery has been divided into seven zones, ensuring that even areas within a two-kilometer mosquito flight range are treated.
Scaling Up Workforce and Providing Amenities
The Vector Control Unit plans to increase its workforce significantly by January 2025. From 100 daily workers currently engaged, the number will rise to 150 by the end of December, 550 by January 1, and nearly 900 by January 11. Additionally, approximately 250 permanent staff members, including malaria inspectors, assistant malaria inspectors, district malaria officers, and supervisors, have been requested from various districts to oversee daily operations.
In an unprecedented move, the workers responsible for spraying and fogging will be provided with accommodation and food at Mahakumbh Nagar. This initiative not only ensures their availability but also eliminates the inconvenience of daily commuting, allowing them to focus on their tasks efficiently.
Ensuring a Safe and Hygienic Mahakumbh
Dr. V.P. Singh, the Nodal Joint Director for Vector Control, emphasized that these efforts aim to provide devotees with a secure and healthy environment. Special training has been imparted to workers for operating machines in emergencies, ensuring preparedness for any unforeseen circumstances.
Dr. Anand Kumar Singh, the Assistant Nodal and DMO for Vector Control, highlighted that insecticide spraying began as early as November 15 in peripheral areas. This proactive approach, coupled with extensive manpower and resources, aims to set a new standard for cleanliness and safety at Mahakumbh 2025.
With these comprehensive measures, the Yogi government is committed to delivering a Mahakumbh that upholds the sanctity of the event while ensuring the health and well-being of its attendees. The focus on hygiene, worker welfare, and strategic planning makes Mahakumbh 2025 a model for large-scale public events worldwide.