In a significant move to ensure pilgrim safety, the Prayagraj administration has announced a stringent set of mandatory regulations for all boatmen operating during the upcoming Magh Mela. The measures are designed to prevent accidents and streamline the ferry services for the millions of devotees expected to visit the Sangam.
Comprehensive Safety Protocols for Boat Operators
The mela administration has made it compulsory for every licensed boatman to adhere to a new safety checklist. Life jackets, displayed fare lists, valid boat fitness certificates, and clear instructions about river lines will be mandatory for anyone ferrying pilgrims from various ghats to the sacred Sangam confluence. Furthermore, each boat will have a strictly enforced limited capacity to avoid overcrowding.
It is estimated that approximately 3,000 boats will be deployed throughout the mela period. Personnel from the jal police and the mela administration will conduct thorough checks to verify the fitness and compliance of every vessel. The administration has clearly stated that these steps are being taken to fix the responsibilities of the boatmen and prioritize the safety of the pilgrims.
River Line and Separate Routes to Prevent Collisions
A key initiative to enhance safety on the water is the construction of a 2-kilometer-long river line on the Yamuna. This physical demarcation, along with the establishment of separate routes for boats plying from different ghats, is specifically intended to minimize the risk of collisions. The mela police will oversee this system.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Magh Mela) Neeraj Pandey emphasized the focus on safety. He told TOI that apart from deep-water barricading and signboards, the administration has concentrated on securing the experience for pilgrims taking boat rides. The police will engage only licensed boatmen and ensure that every pilgrim wears a life jacket during the journey. This rule is already in effect for those boarding from Quila Ghat and Saraswati Ghat.
Strict Enforcement During the Mela Period
These strict measures will be in force for the entire duration of the Magh Mela, which is scheduled to take place from January 3 to February 15, 2024. The decision comes as the administration prepares for a massive influx of devotees to the mela campus. The combined efforts of the jal police and mela authorities aim to create a secure environment, allowing pilgrims to focus on their spiritual observances without safety concerns.
The proactive steps highlight a modernized approach to managing the ancient pilgrimage, balancing tradition with essential safety protocols. The success of these measures will depend on consistent enforcement and cooperation from all boat operators serving the devotees.
