Gangasagar Mela pilgrims board a bus on their way to Sagar Island ahead of 'Makar Sankranti', at Babughat transit camp in Calcutta. West Bengal government has undertaken essential dredging operations in the Muri Ganga river in South 24 Parganas district to remove sandbars that could hinder the movement of large vessels during the Gangasagar Mela.
A vendor arranges 'puja' material at her stall during 'Makar Sankranti' festival, ahead of the commencement of the Gangasagar Mela 2024.
A 'naga sadhu' at a transit camp for Gangasagar Mela pilgrims. To ensure the safety and security of pilgrims, anti-fog lights and extra LEDs have been installed to illuminate the jetties and Sagar Island.
Kapil Muni temple illuminated with colourful lights as part of preparations for the Gangasagar Mela 2024.
Gangasagar Mela pilgrims collect food from volunteers at a transit camp.
Gangasagar Mela pilgrims charge their mobile phones at a transit camp before commencing their journey to Sagar Island. The Gangasagar Mela, which is held on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, will continue till January 17.
Workers put up tents for accomodation of pilgrims.
Security personnel deployed at Sagar Island. Over 12,000 policemen will be deployed, and senior police officers, civic volunteers, green police, and disaster management department personnel will also be present.
A road decorated with lights as part of preparations for the Gangasagar Mela 2024, at Sagar Island in South 24 Parganas district.
Pilgrims board a ferry to reach Sagar Island to take holy dip on the occasion of 'Makar Sankranti'.
A 'sadhu' takes rest under a mosquito net at the Babughat transit camp.