Maha Kumbh 2025: Five Things to Know About Waste Management at the mega mela

A blend of tradition and technology ensures environmental sustainability, hygiene, and effective waste management for the world’s largest spiritual gathering.

  1. Innovative Waste Management Technologies
    Maha Kumbh 2025 showcases cutting-edge waste management solutions, including the Hybrid Granular Sequencing Batch Reactor (hgSBR), Geotube Technology, and bioremediation. These systems efficiently treat vast amounts of faecal sludge, greywater, and solid waste, ensuring environmental cleanliness and public health.
  2. Massive Scale of Waste Management
    The event handles an enormous volume of waste daily: approximately 16 million litres of faecal sludge, 240 million litres of greywater, and solid waste generated by millions of pilgrims. Advanced technologies and infrastructure are deployed to manage this staggering amount effectively.
  3. Collaborative Scientific Efforts
    India’s leading scientific institutions, including ISRO and BARC, are playing a crucial role in developing and implementing these innovative waste management solutions. Their contributions underscore the seamless integration of science and tradition.
  4. Government’s Financial Commitment
    The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated ₹1,600 crore from the total ₹7,000 crore Maha Kumbh budget for waste and water management. This includes ₹316 crore for creating open defecation-free infrastructure, highlighting the emphasis on hygiene and sanitation.
  5. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Approach
    From source-level waste segregation to reducing manual handling, the event sets a benchmark for sustainable waste management at large-scale gatherings. These measures ensure minimal environmental impact, reduced health risks, and efficient resource utilisation, offering a model for future global events.