ISRO's Satellite Captures Stunning Images of Mahakumbh Mela 2025
The Indian Space Research Organisation's radar imaging satellite, RISAT-1A, has been able to capture detailed images of the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Controlled from ISRO's National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) in Hyderabad, the satellite captured high-resolution visuals of the large infrastructure, structures and roads along with hundreds of pontoon bridges constructed across the network of rivers.
Equipped with day-and-night viewing capabilities, RISAT-1A could image the area through dense cloud cover, thereby ensuring uninterrupted monitoring. According to Dr. Prakash Chauhan, Director of NRSC, these images are supporting the Uttar Pradesh administration in disaster mitigation and crowd management during the mega event.
The series of satellite images spans from pre-event preparations on April 6, 2024, to the extensive developments captured on December 22, 2024, and the massive influx of devotees on January 10, 2025. This technological intervention underscores a significant leap in managing large-scale gatherings like the Mahakumbh Mela.
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh lauded the initiative, saying, “These advanced technologies represent a paradigm shift in managing large-scale religious gatherings. The Mahakumbh Mela stands as a shining example of how technology and tradition can come together to create a cleaner, healthier future for all”.
Held every 12 years, Mahakumbh 2025 is expected to draw over 450 million devotees from across the globe. The event commenced on January 10 and will continue until February 26.
On Makar Sankranti alone, an estimated 1.60 crore devotees gathered at the Sangam-the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers-to take a holy dip, marking a grand start to the celebrations. With technology playing a pivotal role, the event seamlessly integrates spirituality and modernity, ensuring the safety and well-being of millions of pilgrims.
