Kumbh Mela clean up operation - 24th March 2025

15,000 labourers have been drafted into Prayagraj to assist in a cleanup following the Kumbh Mela, a festival which entices a record breaking mass of people.

Considering it to hold particular religious significance, Hindus from far and wide make the pilgrimage, with the event's significance underlined by its inclusion in UNESCO’s events of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Bathing in the sacred rivers is regarded as a spiritual odyssey that delves into the very essence of human existence.

In an acknowledgment of Jupiter's orbital journey around the sun, the full Kumbh Mela's a 12 year occurrence. Nevertheless, this year's festivities come with an exceptional astrological alignment, the likes of which can only be witnessed once every 144 years.

Quite possibly due to this outstanding planetary feature, festival numbers have soared, trebling since the half Kumbh Mela of 2019. According to authorities, upwards of 660 million worshippers bathed in the water over the course of the 45 day proceedings.

In response to the predicted swell of pilgrims, 40 square kilometers were set aside to house the 150,000 tents, forming a makeshift city. A similar number of portable toilets were erected and 10,000 workers challenged with the task of guaranteeing the area's sanitation and safety.

When the event came to a close, dismantling the city required considerable thought. Clearing the portable toilets, not to mention an extensive area used by visitors as an external lavatory, proved problematic.

The situation was further hindered by an estimated 20,000 tonnes of rubbish, comprising of abandoned clothing and plastic items, which also had to be disposed of. Government officials declared their intent to minimise the potential environmental damage. "The dedication towards cleanliness… will continue to inspire efforts to keep Prayagraj and its sacred river clean for the generations to come."