The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj appears as one of the spectacular events in this century that attracted many from all walks of life even from beyond the national boundaries. India’s commitment to a greener pathway propelled the planners and the State not to lose sight of this crucial focus and adopt various environmental and sustainability measures and protocols to ensure a greener and a cleaner event. It is a tall order, however, is worth mentioning that certain key measures factored in the planning process include robust waste management systems that promote waste segregation and recycling, alongside a ban on single-use plastics.

The cover story published in the present edition of TerraGreen highlights that Mahakumbh 2025 is not only a spiritual event but a pioneering environmental movement. By blending technology, people, and eco-friendly practices, it sets a unique standard for water preservation and sustainability, offering a replicable model for other global events. The positive impact of these initiatives reflects a growing consciousness and commitment to environmental responsibility. It also throws light on the state government’s strategic planning aligning with the larger sanitation and environmental goals. This intent has been translated into a reality by putting in place a comprehensive plan to ensure a “Clean Maha Kumbh” comprising of innovative waste management systems, stringent bans on single-use plastics, and extensive awareness campaigns for adoption of sustainable practices. As part of its bottom-up and participatory approach, the state government recognized the significance of the role played by the sanitation workers, known as Safai Mitras and placed their well-being, at the heart of its efforts to ensure cleanliness at Mahakumbh.

Reflection on past experiences always helps in future planning. Among the key challenges faced during previous Kumbh Melas was the uncontrolled release of untreated sewage and wastewater, which threatened the purity of the Ganga. To prevent this, the authorities adopted several groundbreaking measures, including the establishment of new sewage treatment plants (STPs) along key ghats in Prayagraj. These plants effectively prevented untreated sewage from entering the rivers and in the process ensured its water quality.

Moreover, a well-orchestrated environmental awareness campaign played a pivotal role in influencing public behaviour and mindset. As part of behaviour change communication (BCC), distribution of eco-friendly pamphlets throughout the mela made a difference, as it immensely helped educate the public about the importance of sustainable living and made them conscious about how each individual action could contribute to larger environmental benefits.