PRAYAGRAJ, Aug. 5 -- The state government has released the first instalment of Rs.100 crore for preparations for Magh Mela-2027, with the Prayagraj Mela Authority set to begin infrastructure works well in advance of the annual religious congregation, which is expected to draw a record number of devotees. The Mela authority had sought a budget of Rs.200 crore from the state government, citing the unprecedented footfall of over 21 crore devotees during Magh Mela 2026 and an estimated 15% rise in pilgrim arrivals next year. Officials said the remaining funds would be released in phases in line with the progress of approved works. The initial allocation will be used to build temporary roads, toilets, and tents for seers and Kalpvasis, while also providing electricity and drinking water facilities, besides installing CCTV cameras and other security infrastructure across the mela area. Sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) (Mela) Vivek Shukla said the first instalment of around Rs.100 crore had been released and work would begin soon. Tenders are expected to be floated this month, with the bidding process likely to conclude by September. Construction is scheduled to begin in October and be completed between December 15 and 31, well ahead of the start of the fair, he said. The Prayagraj Mela Authority had received a budget of Rs.120 crore for Magh Mela-2026. Officials said the higher allocation for 2027 is intended to expand civic amenities and bolster crowd management measures in view of the expected surge in devotees....