Prayagraj: In a groundbreaking achievement, 300 sanitation workers have set a Guinness World Record for the first-ever coordinated river cleaning operation during the Maha Kumbh 2025. The historic feat took place at Ram Ghat and various other segments of the Ganga, marking a significant milestone in environmental conservation efforts.
Akanksha Rana, CEO of the Maha Kumbh Mela, hailed the event as the first Guinness record ever set for a large-scale river cleanup initiative. She also hinted at the possibility of more such records in the coming days, as 15,000 sanitation workers are expected to join the initiative soon.
“Today marks a historic first in the world, where 300 sanitation workers have come together to clean the Ganga at various locations,” Rana told IANS. “This initiative sends a strong message to the country and the world: for everyone’s well-being, our rivers and waterways must remain clean.”
Rana further revealed that the Mela administration aims to break more records, including mobilizing 15,000 workers for a mass cleanup drive and executing simultaneous street sweeping operations across multiple locations.
Hygiene a Top Priority Amid Record-Breaking Attendance
Anand Kumar Singh, a senior official at the Maha Kumbh Mela, emphasized the importance of sanitation, especially with an estimated 500 million pilgrims expected to attend the event.
“This historic record was made today at Ram Ghat, where sanitation workers and volunteers came together to clean the river. With such an unprecedented turnout, hygiene becomes crucial. Our workforce is tirelessly working across all ghats as part of a massive cleanliness drive,” Singh said. “To further strengthen this effort, 15,000 workers will join the campaign tomorrow.”
Sanitation workers expressed immense pride in being part of this landmark event.
Manoj, one of the workers, shared his excitement: “It feels great to contribute to this historic effort. We are working hard to keep the three Sangam Ghats clean, and we hope this initiative inspires people to maintain cleanliness in their own surroundings.”
Sonu Kumar, another sanitation worker, recalled a similar moment in 2019 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored sanitation workers during his visit to the Kumbh Mela. “Seeing 300 people work together today reminds me of that moment. It feels equally special, and we all understand the significance of keeping our rivers and ghats clean.”
A Step Toward a Cleaner Future
As the Maha Kumbh 2025 continues to witness record-breaking attendance, with nearly 46-47 crore pilgrims having already participated, the sanitation initiative stands as a testament to India’s commitment to cleanliness and environmental sustainability. The Guinness World Record sets a new benchmark in global efforts to protect sacred water bodies and promote eco-consciousness among devotees and visitors alike.
