- Intensified preparations as group devotees start arriving
Preparations for the highly anticipated Aalmi Tablighi Ijtima in Bhopal have reached a fever pitch. Starting Wednesday night, groups of devotees (Jamaats) will begin arriving, prompting railway authorities, police, and administration to significantly tighten security and logistical arrangements from the main station to the Ijtema grounds. With peak crowds expected between Friday and Sunday, ongoing reviews ensure arrangements are in their final phase.
= Railway station summit: Focus on security and crowd management
In a crucial meeting held Tuesday at Bhopal Railway Station, officials from the Railways, Police, and the Ijtema Committee convened to hash out strategies. Discussions focused on security protocols, crowd control, and passenger flow across platforms, and efficient management of parking and traffic. An immediate inspection followed, with senior officials reviewing security posts, entry/exit points, and waiting halls across all six platforms. SP Rail mandated the deployment of additional police forces to maintain order during the surge in attendees, emphasizing the need for continuous coordination between the police and railway staff.
= Enhanced facilities for expected surge in attendance
Anticipating the massive influx, the railway station complex is preparing to provide meals for up to 50,000 people. Authorities are considering attaching extra coaches to the Bhopal-Itarsi and Bhopal-Jodhpur Express trains and plan to open four new ticket counters starting December 2nd. At the main venue, a sprawling 120-acre marquee is nearing completion, with thousands of volunteers ensuring seamless water supply, lighting, and catering.
= Record-breaking scale: A 20% increase in arrangements
This year’s Ijtima arrangements have been scaled up by approximately 20% compared to the previous year. The parking area has been expanded to 350 acres, divided into 71 designated zones. Security remains a top priority, with around 850 police personnel deployed along the route from the railway station to the Ijtema ground. The mammoth event is managed by a team of 30,000 people, including 25,000 Ijtema Committee volunteers. The Ijtema is expected to draw over 1.2 million pilgrims and will conclude with a mass prayer on November 17.
