Maha Kumbh 2025: ₹2 Lakh Crore Economic Impact & Infrastructure Development in Uttar Pradesh

Maha Kumbh 2025, currently being held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is anticipated to be one of the largest religious gatherings in history. As per Hindustan Times, the Maha Kubmh spanning 45 days, is expected to attract approximately 45 crore visitors, surpassing the population of many nations. This influx of people is projected to have a significant impact on various economic sectors, generating huge revenue.

Revenue Projections and Economic Contributions

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) estimates that the event will generate economic activity worth Rs 2 lakh crore. The calculations are based on an estimated average spending of Rs 5,000 per visitor, covering transportation, accommodation, food, and religious offerings. If the per capita spending increases to Rs 10,000, the overall revenue could reach Rs 4 lakh crore.

Key sectors expected to benefit from the event include:

• Food and Beverage Industry: Rs 20,000 crore
• Religious Items and Offerings: Rs 20,000 crore
• Transportation and Logistics: Rs 10,000 crore
• Tourism and Hospitality: Rs 10,000 crore
• Medical and Healthcare Services: Rs 3,000 crore
• Technology and Digital Services: Rs 1,000 crore
• Media and Advertising: Rs 10,000 crore
• Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Rs 5,000 crore
• Textile and Clothing Industry: Rs 7,000 crore

Maha Kumbh is expected to generate more than 6 lakh temporary jobs across sectors such as transportation, security, retail, and event management. The employment opportunities extend to skilled and unskilled labor, contributing to economic growth in the region.

Infrastructure Investments

The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs 7,500 crore for infrastructure development to manage the large-scale gathering. The investments are distributed across different sectors:

• Roads and Bridges: Rs 2,500 crore
• Sanitation and Waste Management: Rs 1,500 crore
• Water Supply and Electricity: Rs 1,000 crore
• Construction of Tent City: Rs 2,000 crore
• Health and Emergency Services: Rs 500 crore

A 4,000-hectare tent city has been established to accommodate visitors, featuring temporary shelters, sanitation facilities, food stalls, and medical camps. This tent city spans an area equivalent to 5,600 football fields, highlighting the scale of the preparations.

Key Development Initiatives

The government has inaugurated 167 infrastructure projects worth Rs 5,500 crore, including:

• 14 new flyovers
• 7 new bus stations
• 9 permanent ghats
• 12 km of temporary ghats
• Dedicated emergency evacuation routes
• 200 watchtowers for crowd monitoring

Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives

A budget of Rs 500 crore has been allocated for environmental conservation efforts. This includes river cleaning initiatives, waste management systems, and sustainable tourism practices. The focus is on ensuring that the event does not lead to long-term environmental damage. Key sustainability measures include:

• Deployment of solar-powered lighting and water filtration systems
• Efforts to plant trees and green zones to offset carbon footprint
• Advanced waste management and sewage treatment systems
• Regular monitoring of water quality to prevent pollution

Transport and Connectivity Enhancements

To accommodate the expected influx of visitors, Indian Railways has introduced 100 additional trains, making 3,300 trips. Special arrangements have been made for foreign tourists, with over 15 lakh international visitors expected. The Tourism Ministry has also established a tent city featuring Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchakarma facilities.

Other transportation initiatives include:

• Expansion of airport services and temporary helipads
• Deployment of 5,000 electric buses and 10,000 taxis
• Improvement of road connectivity to neighboring states
• Introduction of digital e-pass systems for regulated vehicle entry

Maha Kumbh 2025 is more than a religious event; it is a catalyst for economic growth and regional development. The large-scale investments in infrastructure, sanitation, and security will leave a lasting impact, improving connectivity and urban facilities. Beyond its spiritual significance, the event fosters tourism, supports local businesses, and strengthens Prayagraj’s position as a global pilgrimage destination. With meticulous planning and technological integration, Maha Kumbh showcases India's capability to manage large-scale gatherings while driving long-term socio-economic benefits.