International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Impact on Air Quality, Water Resources and Land Use in Mahakumbh: A Geographical Analysis in The Reference of Prayagraj District, Uttar Pradesh

In Mahakumbh, Prayagraj District of Uttar Pradesh has had a significant impact on air quality, water resources, and land usage, it’s impact to population growth, industry, and rapid urbanization. This study investigates these effects, focusing on the environmental and socioeconomic implications. Vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, and construction activities have all contributed to increased levels of particulate matter and hazardous substances in the atmosphere. These pollutants exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular health problems, particularly in metropolitan areas of the main city. Water resources are under significant strain, with unsustainable groundwater extraction outpacing natural recharge rates and extensive contamination of rivers and lakes from untreated sewage discharge. It has severely encroached on agricultural land, diminishing areas vital to security and changing ecosystems. The move from rural to urban areas has raised environmental concerns, such as biodiversity loss, the urban heat island effect, and hydrological imbalances. Government measures to address these issues, such as reviving water bodies and encouraging sustainable land use, have showed promise, but they confront problems such as community participation, security and effective execution. This study underlines the critical necessity for coordinated it’s planning and policy approaches that might limit negative effects while accommodating growth. To balance development and environmental preservation, key proposals include tougher pollution regulations, the adoption of effective groundwater management procedures, and the protection of it’s land. The findings underline the importance of a sustainable development framework that balances economic advancement, security of the people and ecological stability, ensuring a healthier and more resilient environment for upcoming people from the different areas of the country and other people upcoming from the other countries of the world. During the Kumbh Mela, a number of Ceremonies take place; the traditional Procession of Akharas called ‘Peshwai’ on Elephant backs, horses and chariots, the Shining swords and rituals of Naga Sadhus During ‘Amrit Snaan, and many other Cultural activities that attract millions of Pilgrims to attend the Kumbh mela. It is situated in the North Indian State of Uttar Pradesh. Prayagraj is one of the fastest growing cities In India at present. It is located 205 kilometers south of the state capital, Lucknow. It is one of four sites of The mass Hindu Pilgrimage Kumbhmela, the others being Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Every year in the Month of January Magh mela is organized at Sangam, while every six year Ardh Kumbh and every twelve Year Maha Kumbh is organized. It has a position of importance in Hindu scriptures for it is situated at Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the holy rivers Ganges, Yamuna and ancient Saraswati River. Allahabad district has a population of about 60 lakh while Prayagraj city has a population about 12 lakh As per the 2011 census. It has literacy rate is 72.3% and an area of about 70 km. and is 98 mt. (332ft) above Sea level. Hindi, Urdu and English are the languages that are spoken in Prayagraj. The dialect of Hindi Spoken in Prayagraj is Awadhi, although Khariboli is most commonly used in the city area. Bengali and Panjabi are also spoken in some areas of the city. All major religions are practiced in the city. Major tourist Destinations are Anand Bhawan, Chandra Shekher Azad Park, Khusoro Bagh, Akhabar Fort, Nag Basuki Temple, All Saint Cathedral Church, High Court etc.