Lakhs of devotees are expected to bathe at the Sangam on Sunday on the festival of Paush Purnima. This will be the second ritual bathing of this Maha Kumbh Mela, after the Makar Sankranti Shahi Snan on January 14.
According to Mela District Magistrate Mani Prasad Mishra, around 55 lakh people are estimated to perform the ritual bath on this day.
The day also marks the commencement of Kalpwas, the month long period of austerity undertaken by devotees known as Kalpwasis, who live a minimalistic life at the mela. The Kalpwas is undertaken by devotees each year during the month of Magh. Around 20 lakh Kalpwasis are expected to live at the Sangam this year.
Adequate measures have been taken to ensure that devotees, especially the kalpwasis, do not face any inconvenience, while commuting or during the baths, said Mr. Mishra.
The ghats in all 14 sectors were ready and deep-water barricading had been ensured, he added.
Senior Superintendent of Police Kumbh Mela, S.S Rathore said a total force of 20,000-30,000 security personnel was installed in the city and at the mela.
Fire brigades, Jal police (water police), and women security personnel would facilitate the security of the devotees, while ATS personnel and dog squads would be positioned at key locations to thwart any terror threats.
On Friday's fire, which left 17 injured, Mr. Mishra said safety instructions were being circulated to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. Strict action will be taken against those not complying with the rules, the official added.
