- Over 12 lakh devotees expected; preparations in full swing at Eintkhedi
Bhopal: The 78th Aalmi Tablighi Ijtema, scheduled to take place from November 14 to 17 at Eintkhedi, is set to become not only a massive religious congregation but also a shining example of social harmony and community cooperation. This year, over 150 trains are expected to bring Jamaats to Bhopal, in addition to thousands arriving by buses and private vehicles.
According to Saurabh Kataria, Senior DCM of the Bhopal Railway Division, extensive crowd management measures are in place to ensure the smooth movement of devotees from railway stations to the Ijtema site. Mobile unreserved ticket vans will also be deployed for added convenience.
People of all faiths contributing to the event
Dr. Umar Hafiz, Media Coordinator of the Ijtema Committee, emphasized that the event represents unity in diversity. “It is incorrect to say that only one community contributes here. People of Hindu and other religions have donated their land, services, and labor. Many parking areas and facilities are built on land belonging to people of other faiths. We believe in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family,” he stated.
A massive 120-acre pandal is taking shape at the Ijtema site, where thousands of volunteers are working on lighting, catering, and water supply arrangements. About 90% of the preparations are complete. The congregation will conclude with a collective prayer on November 17, with more than 1.2 million pilgrims expected to participate.
Preparations this year have been expanded by 20% compared to last year. The parking area now spans 350 acres across 71 zones, while the pandal area has increased from 100 to 120 acres. Dr. Hafiz added that arrangements have been made across 200 acres for service areas, food zones, water closets, and an evolution center.
For security, 850 personnel, including RPF, GRP, police, and Dial-112 staff, will be deployed from Bhopal Railway Station to Narmada Bus Stand for crowd management and traffic control.
