Maha Kumbh 2025, Justin Trudeau's resignation, and stampede in Tirupati
Jan 10, 2025
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This discussion features Maulshree Seth, a reporter from The Indian Express, who shares fascinating insights about the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, highlighting special preparations for 45 crore expected visitors. Shubhajit Roy, also from The Indian Express, unpacks the implications of Justin Trudeau's resignation, shedding light on the political turmoil in Canada. The conversation also touches on the tragic stampede at Tirupati, emphasizing the urgent need for better crowd management during religious events.
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj aims to host 40 crore visitors with innovative waste management and sanitation measures in place.
Justin Trudeau's resignation as Canadian Prime Minister signals a shift in political dynamics amid rising anti-incumbency and upcoming elections.
Deep dives
The Upcoming Mahakumbh and Its Significance
The Mahakumbh Mela, scheduled to commence on January 13 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is a highly anticipated religious event occurring every 12 years, attracting nearly 40 crore visitors this year. This edition is particularly noteworthy as it marks the 144th Kumbh, highlighting its significance for devotees. Extensive planning has gone into accommodating the massive influx, with the government developing a temporary city on approximately 4,000 hectares to house around 50 lakh permanent visitors, including sadhus and saints. Each sector of this temporary city is being equipped with sewage and drainage systems, emphasizing the government's commitment to managing both facilities and the overwhelming waste that will be generated.
Waste Management Strategies for Mahakumbh
As part of the Mahakumbh preparations, comprehensive waste management strategies are being implemented to cope with the anticipated high visitor volume. The government has established separate drainage systems and sewage management plans, including 1.45 to 2 lakh toilets across various sectors. Innovative technologies, such as those developed in collaboration with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and ISRO, are being utilized for wastewater treatment, significantly enhancing the sanitation measures in place. These efforts aim to ensure the event is not only monumental in attendance but also sustainable, particularly in maintaining the cleanliness of the Ganga River.
Political Developments in Canada
In a notable political shift, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced his resignation as party leader amid declining popularity and internal party conflicts. Trudeau's decision reflects growing anti-incumbency sentiment as he faces challenges such as high inflation and economic slowdown while preparing for upcoming elections likely to occur in June. His resignation allows the Liberal Party to elect a new leader, offering a potential fresh face to combat the rising popularity of Conservative leader Pierre Polivier. This transition poses important implications for Canada's future political landscape, particularly as the country approaches a crucial electoral cycle.
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Maulshree Seth about the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 which is being held in Prayagraj. She talks about the arrangements being made and what makes this year special.
Next, The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy speaks to us about Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his resignation from his post and what happens now. (14:42)
Finally, we talk about the stampede caused at Tirupati on the festival of Vaikunta Ekadasi. (25:46)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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