More than 1.2 million devotees expected to attend the event
25,000 volunteers will take care of arrangements
By Asif Hasan
Bhopal – The city is gearing up to host the 78th Aalmi Tablighi Ijtema, one of the world’s five largest Islamic congregations, from November 14 to 17 at Eintkhedi. This year’s event is set to be grander and more organized, with an estimated 12 lakh (1.2 million) pilgrims expected to attend this global gathering, which is held in only three countries: India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The Ijtema Committee has expanded all logistical arrangements by 20% compared to last year to accommodate the surge in visitors.
Expanded Facilities and Logistics Management
According to Media Coordinator Dr. Umar Hafeez, the main tent area (pandal) has been expanded from 100 acres to 120 acres, with its capacity adjusted for safety reasons from 1.80 lakh to 1.40 lakh pilgrims. Crucially, the parking area has been enlarged to over 300 acres, featuring 70 designated parking zones to ensure smooth traffic flow. Enhancements have also been made to lighting, sound, water supply, and food zones, including additional tube wells and water tankers in the service area to reduce queues.
30,000 Volunteers and Joint Security Effort
The entire operation is managed by a massive force of 30,000 trained personnel. This includes 25,000 dedicated Ijtema Committee volunteers working alongside 5,000 staff from the Municipal Corporation, administration, and police. Their focus is on efficient crowd management, hygiene (with sweepers carrying bags to prevent littering), and security. Joint teams will manage fire safety, medical units, and traffic control, while entry and exit points have been redesigned to ensure seamless movement for the massive influx of pilgrims.
