Uttarakhand: 17,000 cusecs of Ganga water released from Haridwar to ensure holy dip at Prayagraj Magh Mela

Haridwar: Preparations for the Magh Mela in Prayagraj have received a major boost with the assurance of adequate Ganga water. On the instructions of the Uttar Pradesh government, the Haridwar Division Irrigation Department has increased the flow of water from Haridwar to Prayagraj, ensuring that devotees can perform the sacred rituals without disruption.

Officials confirmed that the government had ordered a minimum release of 5,000 cusecs of water into the Ganga during the Magh Mela. In compliance, the Irrigation Department is now releasing an average of 9,000 to 10,000 cusecs daily, maintaining a steady flow toward Prayagraj.

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Canal flow maintained for NCR and western UP

Alongside the release for Prayagraj, authorities are also ensuring that irrigation and drinking water needs in Delhi NCR and western Uttar Pradesh are not compromised. A flow of 7,000 to 8,000 cusecs is being maintained in the Ganga Canal to meet these requirements.

Sub‑Divisional Officer Bharat Bhushan of the Haridwar Division explained that prior to the government’s directive, only about 4,000 cusecs of water was being released. “Keeping in mind the Magh Mela, this quantity has now been increased to an average of 9,000 to 10,000 cusecs. This will ensure adequate water availability for bathing in the Ganga at Prayagraj,” he said.

Bhimgoda Barrage records high flow

Meanwhile, the Bhimgoda Barrage in Haridwar is currently recording a flow of approximately 17,000 cusecs of Ganga water. Officials say this level is sufficient to meet both the religious requirements of the Magh Mela and the practical needs of irrigation and drinking water supply downstream.

Significance of the Magh Mela

The Magh Mela, held annually at the Sangam in Prayagraj, is one of the largest spiritual gatherings in India. Devotees from across the country come to take a holy dip in the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, believing it purifies the soul and washes away sins. Ensuring adequate water flow is therefore critical to the success of the event.

Rituals of bathing, donating, and meditation will proceed smoothly

With the increased release of water from Haridwar, officials are confident that the rituals of bathing, donating, and meditation will proceed smoothly. The arrangements highlight the coordination between the irrigation department and the state government to balance religious needs with civic requirements.