World’s Largest Tent City, Spread Across 4000 Hectares to Host 400 Million Devotees During Mahakumbh 2025
The world's largest tent city at Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is set to host 400 million pilgrims with extensive facilities and security.
As Uttar Pradesh prepares for the Mahakumbh 2025, a monumental undertaking is set to unfold with the establishment of the world’s largest ‘tent city’ in Prayagraj. Spanning a massive 4,000 hectares, this temporary city aims to accommodate an estimated 400 million pilgrims during the sacred event, positioning it as the largest congregation of humanity in a single location.
Scope of the Mahakumbh 2025 The Mahakumbh Mela, a centuries-old religious festival held in the historic city of Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), is expected to draw pilgrims equivalent to the combined populations of the US and UK. This record attendance not only underscores the cultural and spiritual significance of the event but also its immense scale, involving elaborate preparations and infrastructure development across the city.
Infrastructure and Facilities The extensive tent city will feature:
- 2,000 tents and 25,000 public accommodations to ensure comfortable housing for the millions of visitors.
- 23,000 CCTV cameras and an AI-based chatbot system for enhanced security measures.
- A network of 67,000 streetlights to maintain visibility and safety throughout the night.
In addition to living accommodations, the government is focusing on infrastructural improvements including:
- New roads and temporary bridges to improve accessibility.
- Hospitals and markets across 25 designated sectors of the tent city.
- Cultural venues, such as a Digital Kumbh Museum showcasing the rich heritage of the Kumbh Mela through various themed galleries.
Security and Administration A dedicated team of senior police and administrative officials will manage the temporary settlement. Recent meetings, including one chaired by DRM/LKO Shri S M Sharma and Mela Adhikari Shri Vijay Kiran Anand, have emphasized the importance of coordination between civil and railway authorities to ensure smooth transit for attendees.
Environmental and Cultural Initiatives The Yogi Adityanath-led government is promoting a ‘green and smart’ Mahakumbh. Efforts include planting 150,000 saplings to enhance the greenery of the area. The spiritual significance of the Sangam—the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers—is expected to attract millions seeking spiritual renewal and salvation.
Financial Outlay and Economic Impact The state has allocated Rs 7,500 crore for 384 projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and services, a significant increase from the Rs 4,200 crore spent during the Ardhkumbh 2019. More than Rs 2,200 crore has already been disbursed for various projects, highlighting the state’s commitment to ensuring a successful event.
Cultural Significance and Global Appeal The Mahakumbha Mela is not merely a religious gathering; it is a vibrant celebration of India’s diverse cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. It serves as a platform for community services, including medical aid and food provisions, embodying the philosophy of universal brotherhood.
Conclusion With comprehensive preparations underway, Mahakumbh 2025 is poised to be a landmark event that will not only bolster Uttar Pradesh’s stature on the global tourism map but also reinforce the cultural nationalism agenda of the current government. As the world’s largest tent city rises in Prayagraj, the anticipation among devotees and tourists alike grows, promising an event that will be remembered for its scale, spirit, and serenity.
