Kumbh Mela To Be Held In Haridwar In January 2021 Despite COVID, Says Uttarakhand CM

Dehradun: COVID or no COVID, Kumbh Mela will be held in its ‘divine form’ at Haridwar in 2021, said Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Sunday.

He made the announcement after attended a meeting with office-bearers of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad (ABAP) regarding the preparations for the 2021 Kumbh Mela, beginning on January 14, ANI reported.

“The extent of the Kumbh Mela will depend on the status of the COVID-19 at that time. The suggestions of the ABAP and the religious fraternity will also be taken in the decisions, which will be taken according to the prevailing situation. The efforts of the state government will be aimed at ensuring that the devotees do not face any inconvenience,” Rawat told ANI, adding the Kumbh Mela works are being reviewed periodically. “Departmental secretaries have been directed to monitor the works under progress consistently. Chief secretary has also been directed to review the situation in 15 days.”

Kumbh Mela officer Deepak Rawat was quoted as saying by ANI that most of the work will be completed by December 15. “Work on nine new (river banks), eight bridges and roads being built for the Kumbh Mela is nearing completion. Special focus is on cleanliness. Works are also being done consistently on drinking water facilitation, parking facility and removal of encroachments,” he said.

About 35 to 50 lakh people are expected to take the holy dip in Ganga daily during the Kumbh Mela 2021.