The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the world's largest religious gatherings, commenced in Prayagraj after a rare celestial alignment, occurring after 144 years. Known for its immense spiritual significance, the event has attracted millions of pilgrims from across the globe. With such a massive influx, ensuring public health and food safety has become a top priority for the government.
To address these concerns, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday announced the deployment of mobile laboratories to inspect food quality at eateries within the Maha Kumbh Mela area. The initiative aims to uphold hygiene and safety standards.
Assistant Food Commissioner (Grade 2) Sushil Kumar Singh highlighted the role of 'Food Safety on Wheels' in preventing the distribution of adulterated or spoiled food to pilgrims.
"These mobile labs conduct instant testing of food and beverages. Regular checks are performed at hotels, dhabas, and stalls, and food safety complaints are promptly addressed to ensure immediate action," Singh said.
The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's leadership, said efforts are being made to ensure clean and safe food for the millions attending the fair.
"The fair is divided into five zones and 25 sectors, with food safety officers in each sector monitoring hygiene and safety standards," the government stated.
"All food safety operations are coordinated from the central office on Sankat Mochan Marg in Sector 24, which oversees monitoring and team deployments across the fair," it added.
While food safety officers manage each sector, chief officers supervise operations across every five sectors, the government said. Up to 14 sectors in the Jhunsi area are being closely monitored, it noted.
On January 13, the first day of the Maha Kumbh, around 1.75 crore devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam. The number doubled to 3.5 crore on the second day, coinciding with Makar Sankranti. The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates a footfall of 40-45 crore pilgrims and visitors over the next six weeks, concluding on February 26.