Nashik, a city steeped in spiritual heritage, is ramping up preparations for the grand Kumbh Mela 2026 with heightened security measures. In a meticulously planned 48-hour joint counter-terror exercise named ‘X Trimbak,’ authorities successfully tested their readiness against potential threats.
Led by the elite National Security Guard (NSG) and Nashik City Police, the drill simulated terrorist attacks at key religious sites: Trimbakeshwar Temple and Kalaram Temple. These locations are expected to draw massive crowds during the event, where millions of devotees are anticipated to converge.
The operation, commanded by Colonel Abhishek Singh of NSG’s 26 Special Composite Group, involved around 150 personnel from multiple agencies. Scenarios included rapid response to attacks, crowd control, emergency evacuations, and immediate medical aid for the injured.
Participating forces encompassed Nashik City Police, State Reserve Police, Bomb Detection Squad, Fire Brigade, Disaster Management Authority, Health Department, ambulance services, local administration, and temple trusts. The exercise highlighted seamless coordination and the effectiveness of unified command structures.
This comprehensive drill underscores the administration’s zero-tolerance approach to security lapses. Officials emphasized that such simulations are crucial for ensuring a safe pilgrimage for lakhs of devotees. Future drills are planned to maintain peak preparedness, guaranteeing a peaceful Mahakumbh 2026.