Dedicated DCP Planned for Sadhugram
Security preparations for Nashik Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 are being expanded as authorities prepare for a large influx of pilgrims. For the first time, the police department plans to appoint a separate Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Sadhugram to oversee law and order in the area.
A separate DCP will also be assigned to traffic management. The appointments are expected to be completed by March, giving the police department dedicated senior-level leadership for two of the most challenging areas during the Kumbh.
Key Highlights
- A dedicated DCP for Sadhugram will be appointed for the first time.
- A separate DCP will oversee traffic management.
- Around 35,255 police personnel are planned for Kumbh security.
- Water barricading will be introduced in the Godavari river for the first time.
- Special teams from ATS, RAF, BDDS, SDRF and NDRF will support the security operation.
- 27 DCPs and 448 police inspectors are expected to be deployed for crowd management.
Security Plan Prepared for Large Crowds
Police authorities estimate that around 2 crore pilgrims could arrive during a major Parvani, while the total number of visitors across the Kumbh period could reach approximately 8 crore.
The scale of the expected crowd has led the police department to prepare a wider security and crowd-management plan covering law and order, traffic, river safety and emergency response.
The plan was discussed during a meeting attended by Police Commissioner Sandeep Karnik, Simhastha Authority Commissioner Shekhar Singh and senior police officials.
Water Barricading Planned in the Godavari
For the first time, police authorities are planning to use water barricading in the Godavari river during the Kumbh.
The measure is being considered because of the relatively narrow river channel around Ram Kund and the surrounding Godavari riverfront. The barricading is intended to help regulate movement near the water and reduce the risk of accidents during periods of heavy crowding.
The arrangement will form part of the wider riverfront safety plan during the major bathing occasions.
35,255 Police Personnel to Support Kumbh Security
The security deployment is being significantly expanded for the 2027 Kumbh. Around 35,255 police personnel are planned to be deployed across different responsibilities.
The force will also include specialised units such as the Anti-Terrorism Squad, Rapid Action Force, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, State Disaster Response Force and National Disaster Response Force.
For on-ground crowd management, 27 DCPs and 448 police inspectors are expected to be deployed at different locations.
Separate Focus on Sadhugram and Traffic
Sadhugram will be one of the key operational zones during the Kumbh, with Akharas, sadhus and large groups of visitors expected to gather there.
Giving the area its own DCP is intended to allow police authorities to focus specifically on law and order, crowd movement and security within Sadhugram, while a separate senior officer handles the city's traffic arrangements.
The expanded structure is being put in place well ahead of Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 so that security, crowd movement and emergency response can be managed without relying on last-minute arrangements.