Massive commotion ahead of Gangasagar Mela, 3 kms long queue of pilgrims

As the vibrant preparations for the upcoming Gangasagar Mela in West Bengal gain momentum, a significant challenge has emerged at Kakdwip's lot no.8 vessel wharf. A massive congregation of pilgrims has resulted in a three-kilometer-long queue, leading to unrest and occasional clashes among the devotees. The incident took place at the South 24 Parganas Harwood Point Coastal Police Station plot Number Eight Vessel Wharf, led to immediate intervention from local police and civil defense personnel from Kakdwip Harwood point coastal police station.

The primary cause of the unrest, as revealed by local and administrative sources, is the scarcity of vessels along with lack of water availability. Vessel authority sources have cited ongoing dredging work in the Muri Ganga river as the root cause, limiting the number of vessels in operation. 

However, authorities have assured that these challenges will be addressed before the commencement of the Ganga Sagar Mela. Plans are underway to ensure an ample number of vessels during the Mela, with a commitment to continuous 24-hour service post the completion of dredging work. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in a recent meeting at Nabanna, confirmed that the fair will commence from January 8 to January 17.

To facilitate seamless travel for pilgrims, Eastern Railway is set to operate 66 additional trains from Sealdah, with 16 to 17 extra trains daily on the Canning Namkhana Kakdwip branch. A robust transportation plan includes 2250 additional buses, 100 launches, and 32 vessel vehicles for river crossings. The fairgrounds will feature extensive security measures, including 1150 closed-circuit TVs, thirty alarm buttons, and 50 fire brigade vehicles. Annoucements will be made in eight different languages for the convinience of the pilgrims and each vehicle will be accompanied by a guide to assist devotees throughout their journey.