The state government has estimated an expenditure of Rs 669 cr
Uttar Pradesh is bracing up for the mammoth religious congregation of Kumbh Mela 2013 in Allahabad.
The government has estimated expenditure of Rs 669 crore on various development works relating to Kumbh Mela due from January 27 to February 25, 2013.
State chief secretary Jawed Usmani reviewed the preparedness of various departments, while underlining the priority of the government towards orderly conduct of the mega event.
The largest chunk of the expenditure of Rs 402 crore would be incurred by the Public Works Department (PWD) in road related works, followed by UP Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) at Rs 93 crore for sprucing up power supply.
Besides, irrigation department, UP Jal Nigam, Allahabad Development Authority (ADA), Nagar Panchayat, tourism department, State Housing Board, Allahabad Municipal Corporation and the Ganga Pollution Control cell are also involved in the preparations.
The departments have been asked to chart their time-bound action plans and warned against any laxity.
Millions of pilgrims visit the holy city of Allahabad for special prayers and the ritualistic dip at the Sangam, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers. Kumbh congregations are considered auspicious by Hindus.
While Kumbh Mela is held every 12th year, Ardha Kumbh Mela is held every 6th year and Magh Mela is the annual version of Kumbh. The last Kumbh Mela was held in 2001.
