Prayagraj: Tech giant Google has decided to integrate the temporary city of the Maha Kumbh Mela area into its navigation system for the first time.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Google and the Maha Kumbh Mela Authority to facilitate this initiative.
Under this agreement, Google will develop a specialised navigation system for the Maha Kumbh, enabling devotees to easily locate various sites, Akharas, and prominent saints throughout the area. This innovative navigation feature is expected to launch in late November or early December.
Maha Kumbh, the largest event of the Sanatan faith, has sparked curiosity not just in India but around the world, with many eager to participate in this grand gathering.
In simple terms, navigation refers to the detailed guidance provided for reaching a destination, which has evolved from asking for directions or using paper maps to the modern convenience of Google navigation. This tool presents comprehensive maps but also offers detailed instructions on when and where to turn.
While Google typically provides navigation for established cities globally, this marks its first venture into creating navigation for a temporary city, offering information about main roads, religious sites, ghats, Akhadas and the locations of notable saints.
Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi said that while people gather in large numbers worldwide, Google has never previously allowed navigation for temporary events.
This marks the first time the company has revised its policy to include the Maha Kumbh Mela area in its navigation map, recognising the significance of the event and the vast crowds it attracts. With this agreement between Google and the Mela Authority, over 45 crore domestic and international devotees attending the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj will benefit from this technology, enabling them to navigate to their destinations with ease.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has underscored the importance of utilising digital technology to enhance the experience of devotees during this grand event, and this initiative by the Mela Authority aligns with his vision.
With Google Maps on their mobile devices, devotees will have comprehensive navigation assistance, allowing them to reach their desired locations without difficulty.
Whether they wish to visit Sangam Ghat, find a specific Akhara, or pay their respects at a temple, they will no longer need to ask for directions.
Instead, they can easily locate their destinations through Google navigation on their phones, making it simpler to connect with prominent saints as well.