Gangasagar sees record turnout of 25L before holy dip
Times of India | 13 January 2025
12 Gangasagar: Around 25 lakh people have been to Gangasagar this time well ahead of the auspicious dip, which will start at 6.58am on Jan 14 and last for 24 hours.
According to state officials, many devotees have headed for Gangasagar early, some even from Dec 25, to take an early dip and then move for the Maha Kumbh.
State minister Bankim Hazra said: "Nearly 25 lakh people have already visited Gangasagar. We are expecting a 75–80 lakh turnout coinciding with the auspicious dip on Jan 14-15. Last year, the turnout around the same time was over 1 crore. Due to Maha Kumbh, many devotees have arrived early this time. We are prepared for a larger turnout."
Gangasagar officially started on Jan 10.
Hazra said the administration was prepared, as were the land and water routes. A special bike patrol squad, equipped with modern weapons and authorised to fire if necessary, will be deployed. This squad will comprise 45 bikes with two special force members on each, patrolling the entire area.
This year, the emphasis was on a green Gangasagar. If visitors bring plastic items from other states or countries, they will be exchanged for eco-friendly bags by the administration, Hazra said. Recycling machines have been installed to process the collected plastic, he added. To ensure uninterrupted services, 152 NGOs have been readied, with air ambulance services available for the sick.