Authorities plan multi-layer telecom grid for Kumbh 2027

Nashik: With the footfall of devotees during Simhastha Kumbh 2027 expected to cross 12 crore, authorities are planning a multi-layered telecom grid aimed at preventing communication breakdowns during peak bathing days, when single day footfall could touch 2.25 crore on each of the three Amrit Snan days.The proposed telecom blueprint has been built around large scale deployment of a 5G grid across Nashik and Trimbakeshwar, supported by network slicing to ensure that emergency, security and administrative communication is prioritised during periods of extreme congestion.Officials said the plan is designed to ensure that essential communication systems continue to function even if public mobile networks face overload.Temporary high capacity mobile infrastructure, including Cells on Wheels, will be deployed at ghats, major arterial roads, holding areas and other congregation points to absorb sudden spikes in voice and data traffic. These mobile units are expected to play a critical role during Shahi and Amrit Snan days, when crowd density peaks within short time windows.A key element of the plan is the creation of dedicated, mission critical communication networks for police, disaster response agencies and medical services. Officials said such exclusive networks are essential to ensure uninterrupted coordination during emergencies, stampede like situations or medical crises, where reliance on conventional public networks may prove risky."To guard against backend failures, authorities are also focusing on strengthening fibre and IP based backhaul connectivity across the Kumbh region. In addition, satellite-based connectivity has been proposed as a final fail safe to maintain communication in the event of fibre damage, power outages or natural disruptions," a Nashik Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority official said.