Assam steps up preparations for annual Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Temple, expects massive footfall this year

Preparations for the annual Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Temple atop Nilachal Hills in Guwahati are in full swing, with the Assam government putting in place extensive arrangements ahead of the commencement of the festival on June 22. 

Authorities expect nearly 800,000 devotees and visitors to participate in one of the country’s largest annual religious congregations.

The Ambubachi Mela is an important annual Hindu religious fair held at the revered Kamakhya Temple and marks the symbolic annual menstruation cycle of Goddess Maa Kamakhya. The festival draws devotees, saints and visitors from across India and abroad every year.

Addressing the media, Assam Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog said that three large camps have been established to accommodate devotees and visitors during the mela period. She stated that road carpeting and resurfacing works are being undertaken to improve connectivity and facilitate smooth movement in and around the temple area.

The minister further informed that a public announcement system has been arranged to support crowd management and ensure timely dissemination of information. Cleanliness and sanitation have been identified as priority areas, with dedicated measures being implemented across the temple premises and adjoining locations.

Special arrangements have also been made for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to ensure accessibility and convenience during the pilgrimage.

To maintain public health standards during the event, Food Inspectors have been deployed to monitor food quality and safety across the mela grounds.

Highlighting the state's tourism growth, Neog said Assam has received approximately 8.5 million domestic tourists and around 42,000 foreign tourists so far.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Guwahati, Jayanta Sarathi Borah, announced a comprehensive traffic management plan for the festival. According to the plan, no vehicles other than emergency services will be allowed beyond Nursery Point. Vehicles carrying food supplies will be permitted movement only during the designated hours between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

Authorities expressed confidence that coordinated efforts across departments will ensure the smooth conduct of the annual religious gathering while maintaining safety, accessibility and public convenience.