Dr. Jitendra Singh
As the dawn breaks over the vast canvas of the Maha Kumbh Mela, the scale of this monumental event becomes truly apparent. Picture an ocean of people, each person adding to the colorful tapestry of faith and reverence. Amidst this breathtaking display, the real unsung heroes are the state-of-the-art waste management technologies that operate diligently behind the scenes. Much like the conductors of a magnificent orchestra, these innovations ensure that every aspect of cleanliness and hygiene is in perfect harmony.
From advanced sewage treatment facilities to natural purification systems, each component is essential in upholding the sanctity of the environment. This seamless fusion of tradition and modern technology not only protects the spiritual heart of the Maha Kumbh but also serves as a model for future large-scale events around the globe.
Picture a vibrant metropolis emerging seemingly overnight, bustling with millions gathered for a momentous spiritual celebration. This 45-day religious observance is anticipated to attract around 400 million visitors, resulting in a staggering daily waste management challenge. Yet, the authorities remain undeterred, enlisting the expertise of the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)—two of India’s leading scientific institutions—to address this monumental task.
The level of waste generated at the Maha Kumbh is astounding: nearly 16 million liters of fecal sludge and 240 million liters of graywater produced daily, alongside substantial solid waste from the influx of pilgrims. Tackling this challenge necessitates sophisticated solutions, and this is where advanced technologies play a pivotal role.
Among these innovations is the Hybrid Granular Sequencing Batch Reactor (hgSBR), a cutting-edge technology born from collaboration between ISRO and BARC. Think of it as a high-tech washing machine designed not for clothes, but for processing sewage. This method will be implemented at three prefabricated Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs), effectively managing human waste to keep the surroundings clean and safe.
Another remarkable technology is Geotube Technology, which resembles a gigantic tea bag that manages and treats large volumes of liquid waste. This innovative approach aids in confining and processing waste, ensuring that only purified water is released back into the environment.
Additionally, the methodology of bioremediation is being utilized at the Maha Kumbh. Envision extensive ponds filled with beneficial microorganisms that decompose pollutants and cleanse the water. This natural, eco-friendly technique will be employed to treat graywater accumulated in around 75 large ponds, ensuring safe and effective water treatment.
The Uttar Pradesh government has demonstrated a strong commitment to waste management, allocating a total budget of ₹7,000 crore for the Maha Kumbh, with ₹1,600 crore specifically earmarked for waste and water management, and ₹316 crore designated for open defecation-free (ODF) infrastructure. This substantial financial investment highlights the significance of maintaining hygiene and sanitation throughout the event.
The technologies being implemented aim to address several critical ecological issues. They help prevent river water contamination, minimize health risks associated with waste and sewage, and lessen the environmental impact of this large gathering. The operational strategies for waste management include minimizing manual handling, prioritizing waste segregation at the source through advanced technological solutions, and establishing efficient disposal methods.
Additional preparatory efforts encompass the installation of 145,000 portable toilets, the deployment of numerous cleaners for continuous sanitation, the establishment of adequate medical facilities, and a comprehensive waste collection and management system.
These advanced technologies signify a transformative leap in the management of large-scale religious events, offering environmentally sustainable waste solutions, reduced health hazards, minimal ecological disruption, and effective resource management. The Maha Kumbh 2025 serves as a testament to India’s technological capabilities in addressing complex logistical and environmental challenges tied to massive religious gatherings. It exemplifies how technology and tradition can unite to forge a cleaner, healthier future for everyone.
(The author is the Union Minister for Science and Technology)
