In a historic effort blending modern engineering and mythological inspiration, Uttar Pradesh authorities have unified three distinct waterways of the Ganga River to ensure uninterrupted water flow to the Sangam. For those who don’t know it, the Sangam is the sacred confluence of the Yamuna, Ganga and mythical Saraswati rivers. This initiative aims to enhance the spiritual experience of millions of devotees who are expected to attend Mahakumbh-2025 in Prayagraj, scheduled from January 13 to February 26.

Echoing the legend of Bhagirath

The project is seen as a modern parallel to the legend of Bhagirath, who, according to Hindu mythology, brought the sacred Ganges to Earth through his intense penance.

“The initiative echoes the mythological tale of Bhagirath. This project ensures uninterrupted flow of water from the Ganga to Sangam, where over 400 million pilgrims will take holy bath,” said Vijay Anand, nodal officer of Mahakumbh.

Over time, the Ganges divided into three streams between Shastri Bridge and Sangam Nose, reducing its sanctity and complicating pilgrimage planning. The division disrupted arrangements at the fairgrounds, limiting bathing space and creating logistical challenges for the Mahakumbh.

Unified flow restores sacred experience

The Uttar Pradesh irrigation department has restored the original course of the Ganga by merging its three rivers into one, expanding the bathing area and simplifying arrangements for pilgrims.

“Connecting the three strands into one was a difficult but necessary task,” said Anand. “This ensures that pilgrims can bathe in the sacred waters without interruption, making their spiritual experience more enriching.”

The unification created an additional 22 hectares of swimming space. “This expansion allows thousands of devotees to bathe simultaneously at a central location, thereby reducing traffic congestion and ensuring a seamless experience,” said Manish Srivastava, technical advisor of the project.

Overcoming technical challenges

The engineering feat involved the deployment of three massive dredging machines based on detailed surveys. However, stabilizing the machines against the fast currents and high water levels of the Ganges proved to be a daunting challenge. The high flow frequently destabilized heavy machinery, bending discharge pipes and damaging key components.

Engineers secured the dredges with large anchors, pontoon bridges and thick ropes to withstand the force of the river. “Restoring the original course of the river was an arduous task, but our team worked tirelessly, overcoming all challenges,” Srivastava added.

After continuous dredging in three shifts, the waterways were successfully unified. To prepare the expanded fairground, over five lakh tonnes of sand were used to level the area, ensuring accessibility and readiness for the expected millions of devotees.

Ensuring purity of Ganga through advanced wastewater management

Besides restoring the course of the river, the UP Jal Nigam (Urban) has taken steps to maintain the purity of the Ganga. A Rs 55 crore geotube technology-based treatment plant has been set up at Salori to treat wastewater from 22 untapped municipal pipelines.

“The plant is currently undergoing trials and will be fully operational by January 1,” said Saurabh Kumar, executive engineer, Jal Nigam (Urban). Using geotube technology, the facility can treat 40 to 50 percent of the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and approximately 80 percent of the total suspended solids (TSS). The water undergoes further purification by hydrogen peroxide and ozonation.

Ozonation replaces traditional chlorination to avoid harm to aquatic life while effectively eliminating fecal bacteria. The entire treatment process is monitored using advanced OCEMS technology.

A sacred and lasting Mahakumbh

With the unification of the Ganges waterways and advanced wastewater management, Mahakumbh-2025 promises to be a more organized, sacred and environmentally sustainable gathering.

“With these strategic measures in place, Mahakumbh-2025 is expected to provide a more organized, sacred and eco-friendly experience to the millions of devotees gathered at the revered Sangam of Prayagraj,” Anand added.