Authorities are keeping a high vigil in Prayagraj ahead of the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan at the ongoing Mahakumbh on Monday.
The Uttar Pradesh government has heightened preparations to an all-time high, particularly in the wake of the January 29 stampede at Sangam.
The government said in a statement on Sunday that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed that all doctors across Mahakumbh Nagar and the entire division remain vigilant to ensure the safety and well-being of devotees.
"Over 1,200 medical personnel are fully prepared in Mahakumbh Nagar to provide immediate assistance. The entire medical force will remain stationed at the fairground and will only be relieved after February 6," it said.
A four-member special medical team has inspected all hospitals within the Mela site, ensuring that medicine stocks and medical equipment are well-maintained.
"At Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital, 500 staff members have been put on standby, most existing patients have been discharged, and 150 beds have been reserved for emergencies. Sixty resident doctors have been placed on 24-hour alert mode, 30 CT scan machines are ready, along with MRI and ultrasound facilities, ensuring all necessary tests can be conducted. A 200-unit blood bank has also been set up at SRN Hospital, and all facilities are linked to an alarm system for quick response," said the statement.
Basant Panchami marks the third and the final Amrit Snan date at the Mahakumbh while Maghi Purnima (February 12) and Mahashivratri (February 26) will also witness special snans.
On January 29, on the occasion of the Mauni Amavasya, a major stampede broke out at the Sangam, killing at least 30 people and injuring over 60 others.
The police blamed overcrowding for the incident while the opposition targeted the government, alleging mismanagement and VIP movement at the event.
On Sunday, Chief Minister Adityanath said 34 crore devotees have taken holy dip in Triveni Sangam.
