Kumbh Mela: Chopper rides await pilgrims in Allahabad next year

Yogi govt speeds up preparations for Kumbh Mela, which will begin in January 2019

[File] A couple praying during the Kumbh Mela | Reuters [File] A couple praying during the Kumbh Mela | Reuters

With the Allahabad Ardh Kumbh Mela fast approaching in January next year, the Uttar Pradesh government has stepped up its preparations to ensure the visitors have a memorable experience. Chopper rides, Swiss cottages and specially-trained guides are a few of the initiatives that the UP government is introducing next year.

The UP tourism department is planning chopper rides for pilgrims that will enable them view of the fair in all its aerial majesty. A few private companies have already agreed to provide choppers to ferry pilgrims at a reasonable fair. A helipad is also being constructed at breakneck speed at Kumbh to facilitate the initiative.

It is for the first time that such a facility is being introduced in the Kumbh. According to tourism department officials, various modalities like chopper fair, number of ferries and routes are currently being finalised.

In addition, the tourism department is also introducing other facilities such as Swiss cottages and a laser show that would depict the mythological importance of the Kumbh. The department is planning to have about 5,000 Swiss cottages for the tourists, in addition to an array of tour packages.

A 'tourist walk', especially for foreign tourists, would be introduced to give them a better comprehension of the Kumbh. The department is selecting and training guides for the same. The UP government is also working on a coffee table book to help the visitors to explore the area.

It may be recalled that UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath has been focusing to make the Kumbh a grand event next year. The UP government has kept aside a budget of Rs 2,500 crore for this mega show. The Allahabad Kumbh Mela will be held between January 15 and March 4, 2019.

Interestingly, the Kumbh Mela coincides with the year of general elections. Hence, the UP government will also use the Kumbh Mela as an arena to highlight the works and achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.