Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 4 (HBTV): The preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 have been ramped up as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Prayagraj on Tuesday for the fifth time in December to review the arrangements for the upcoming event.

During his visit, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Bio-CNG plant in the Naini area of the city. He also inspected key locations such as the Sangam Erawat Ghat, Sangam Noj Ghat, and the newly constructed steel bridge parallel to the Ganga Setu.

In view of the Mahakumbh, CM Yogi held a review meeting at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) Auditorium in the Prayagraj Mela Authority to assess the progress of preparations.

Additionally, the Chief Minister conducted a ground inspection of various routes and reviewed the newly built steel bridge parallel to the Ganga Setu. CM Yogi has already extended invitations for the Mahakumbh 2025 to President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and other dignitaries.

The Mahakumbh, held once every 12 years, is scheduled to begin on January 13 and conclude on February 26, 2025, in Prayagraj. The main bathing festivals, known as the 'Shahi Snan' (royal baths), will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).

As part of the preparations, the Uttar Pradesh Police will use underwater drones for enhanced security during the Mahakumbh Mela 2025.

The event will also showcase India's cultural diversity from January 10 to February 24. The Uttar Pradesh Culture Department is finalising plans to present the country's rich folk arts during this period, according to a press release.

The department will set up 20 small stages at key locations across Prayagraj, allowing tourists, devotees, and locals to experience India's cultural heritage over 45 days. Folk dance forms from various states across the country will be performed on these stages.

(ANI)