At the grand spectacle of Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, a thoughtful and large-scale arrangement has been put in place to ensure a continuous supply of clean drinking water for millions of pilgrims arriving from across India and beyond. A network of 233 Water ATMs has been installed across the Mela area, operating round the clock to provide pure Reverse Osmosis (RO) water. Since January 21, more than 40 lakh pilgrims have already benefited from this initiative, ensuring they remain hydrated as they participate in the sacred rituals and festivities.
In a commendable move to make clean water accessible to all, the administration initially introduced this service at a nominal cost of ₹1 per liter, allowing pilgrims to pay either through coins or digital transactions. However, recognizing the importance of free and easy access to drinking water, the service has now been made completely free. Each Water ATM is manned by an operator who ensures that pure water is dispensed immediately upon request, preventing any inconvenience for the devotees.
Equipped with advanced technology, these Water ATMs function seamlessly through automated, sensor-based systems that detect any technical glitches in real time. If an issue arises, a team of technicians promptly resolves it to maintain an uninterrupted water supply. Given the massive turnout at Mahakumbh, each Water ATM is supplying between 12,000 and 15,000 liters of RO water daily. These machines are also linked to the administration’s central network through SIM-based technology, enabling real-time monitoring of water consumption, quality, and distribution.
Beyond addressing the essential need for hydration, this initiative is also an important step toward environmental conservation. In previous Kumbh events, discarded plastic water bottles had contributed significantly to pollution, especially around the Sangam and other ghats. This time, the administration has taken proactive steps to prevent such waste by promoting the use of Water ATMs, reducing the reliance on single-use plastic bottles.
To ensure the smooth functioning of this system throughout Mahakumbh, dedicated technical teams have been deployed to oversee the operations and swiftly address any issues. The success of this initiative has sparked discussions about implementing similar arrangements for future Kumbh gatherings and other large religious events, setting a new benchmark for pilgrim convenience and environmental responsibility.
Mahakumbh 2025 has not only brought together millions of devotees in spiritual harmony but has also demonstrated how modern technology and thoughtful planning can enhance the experience. This initiative stands as a testament to the administration’s commitment to both the well-being of pilgrims and the protection of the environment, making this grand event more inclusive, sustainable, and exemplary for the future.
