Gangasagar Fair Begins in West Bengal; Over 3 Lakh Pilgrims Gather

The annual Gangasagar fair kicks off at the Sagar Island in West Bengal on Jan. 14, 2012. Around three lakh pilgrims took a holy dip in the Ganga on the occasion of Makar Sankranti during the fair. Sagar Island is located in district South 24-Parganas, about 150 km from Kolkata.

Gangasagar is considered auspicious by the Hindus, who gather at Sagar island on Makar Sankranti, which is annually celebrated on Jan. 14, for a holy dip and to pray by offering coconuts at the Kapil Muni temple.

The state government has made elaborate arrangements for the annual Gangasagar fair. A three-pronged security arrangement has been made with 14 hovercrafts already at hand and helicopters to be deployed to keep a vigil. Over 6,000 security personnel have been positioned in the area.

Adequate number of buses, boats and taxis has been arranged for transportation of the devotees. They will also be provided drinking water in pouches free of cost. For sanitation, 1,000 temporary and one mobile toilet would be provided.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee has also abolished pilgrim tax, levied earlier on those who visited the fair.