'Magh Mela' begins in Allahabad amidst tight security

With the commencement of the annual 'Magh Mela' here on Monday, security has been tightened to avoid any untoward incident from happening.

Reportedly, over 25 lakh pilgrims are expected to turn up on the first day of this month-long event.

In view of high turnout, a host of paramilitary and security forces have been put on standby and elaborate security arrangements have been made.

Inspector General (IG), Allahabad Zone, Daljeet Chaudhary, said that cameras had been installed at all strategic points to keep an eye on every movement.

"A host of security forces have been deployed here and cameras have been installed at all strategic points. A very technically sound control room has been set up so that we can continuously monitor all the activities that will go on in the fair," said Chaudhary.

Authorities have also taken care to provide basic facilities like those of transportation, sanitation, medical aid and drinking water etc.

Barricades have been erected at various river banks and also boards warning of deep waters have been put at place.

The Magh Mela starts every year in the month of January and continues till the month of February. This is considered to be a very auspicious time, when devotees not only from Uttar Pradesh, but from across the country throng this fair.

Hindus widely believe that they can wash away lifetime of sins by taking a dip in the holy water.