DoT Boosts Telecom Infrastructure for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Seamless Connectivity for Millions

With the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 set to draw millions of devotees to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is making significant strides to enhance communication infrastructure. These upgrades aim to ensure seamless connectivity and a superior digital experience for attendees of this global event.

Enhanced Telecom Infrastructure Across Prayagraj

Citywide Network Strengthening

Prayagraj’s urban telecom infrastructure has received a significant upgrade, including:

126 km of Optical Fibre Cable (OFC): Strengthening the backbone of connectivity.

328 New Towers/Masts: Expanding coverage across the city.

575 New Base Transceiver Stations (BTS): Supporting all mobile technologies for enhanced network capacity.

Upgrading 1,462 Existing BTS Units: Ensuring uninterrupted communication even during peak usage.

Mela-Specific Improvements

In the Mela area, telecom providers are focusing on high-density zones:

192 km of OFC has been laid to ensure high-speed, reliable network access.

78 Cell on Wheels (CoWs) and 150 Outdoor Small Cell Solutions: Addressing network congestion in crowded areas.

352 New BTS Units and 50 Upgraded Units: Reinforcing connectivity for millions of devotees.

Network Optimization for Public Spaces and Highways

The DoT is optimizing telecom services in key transit and public spaces, such as:

Railway stations, bus terminals, and airports.

Holding areas, parking zones, and the Green Corridor, a vital route for efficient traffic management. These efforts ensure consistent coverage across high-traffic zones and critical transport links.

Safety, Emergency Services, and Citizen Support

Public Safety Initiatives

53 Help Desks across the Mela area: Assisting with lost mobiles, fraud reporting, and other telecom-related concerns.

Radiation Testing: Ensuring all telecom towers operate within permissible limits to safeguard public health.

Emergency Alert Systems

Cell Broadcast Alert Facility and Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) platforms will issue real-time alerts for emergencies, disasters, and public announcements.

Disaster Preparedness

Three disaster management centers have been established in the Mela area, operated by Airtel, BSNL, Jio, and Vi. These centers are equipped with advanced communication tools to coordinate responses during crises, ensuring the safety and security of attendees.

Enabling a Digital Pilgrimage Experience

From enabling mobile-based payments for hassle-free transactions to live streaming religious rituals, the enhanced telecom infrastructure supports a holistic digital experience for devotees. These efforts position the Maha Kumbh Mela as a blend of spiritual tradition and modern technology.

About Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela is a monumental spiritual gathering, attracting millions from across the globe to Prayagraj. The 2025 event is anticipated to be one of the largest gatherings in history, necessitating exceptional coordination and infrastructure.

The DoT remains committed to ensuring the highest quality telecom services during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, fostering an environment of safety, convenience, and connectivity for pilgrims, visitors, and stakeholders alike.