Maha Kumbh 2025: UP Government Ensures Food Safety with Mobile Labs

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has commenced in Prayagraj after a rare celestial alignment, occurring after 144 years. This grand event, known for its spiritual significance, is expected to attract an estimated 40 to 45 crore pilgrims and visitors over six weeks, concluding on February 26.

With such a massive influx of people, ensuring food quality and public health has become a key priority for the Uttar Pradesh government. In a proactive move, the state government has introduced mobile laboratories to ensure food safety and hygiene at eateries within the Maha Kumbh Mela area.

Mobile Labs for Instant Food Testing

Assistant Food Commissioner (Grade 2) Sushil Kumar Singh emphasized the importance of ‘Food Safety on Wheels,’ a fleet of mobile labs designed to conduct instant tests on food and beverages.
“These mobile labs play a crucial role in preventing the distribution of adulterated or unsafe food. Regular inspections are conducted at hotels, dhabas, and food stalls, while any complaints about food safety are promptly addressed to ensure immediate action,” Singh explained.

Coordinated Efforts for Food Safety

The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, has divided the Maha Kumbh Mela area into five zones and 25 sectors. Food safety officers are deployed in each sector to monitor hygiene and food quality. A central control office on Sankat Mochan Marg in Sector 24 oversees these operations and coordinates team deployments across the event.

Chief officers are assigned to supervise operations across every five sectors, ensuring efficient management. Special attention is being given to the 14 sectors in the Jhunsi area to uphold strict food safety standards.

A Record-Breaking Turnout

The Maha Kumbh Mela witnessed a record-breaking turnout on its first two days. On January 13, the opening day, around 1.75 crore devotees gathered at the sacred Triveni Sangam. The number doubled to 3.5 crore on January 14, coinciding with Makar Sankranti.

Commitment to Public Health

This large-scale deployment of food safety measures highlights the government’s commitment to public health during this significant religious event. The initiative ensures that millions of devotees and visitors have access to clean, safe, and hygienic food throughout the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

By integrating advanced food testing methods and strict hygiene monitoring, the Uttar Pradesh government sets a benchmark for managing food safety at large gatherings, providing a safe and memorable experience for all attendees.