PRAYAGRAJ, Jan. 3 -- Braving dense fog and chilly winds, lakhs of pilgrims will take a holy dip in the Sangam waters in Prayagraj on Saturday, the first day of the 44-day Magh Mela.

With an anticipated footfall of 12-15 crore devotees, this is the first Magh Mela to be held after last year's Mahakumbh and is expected to be the largest ever.

Divisional commissioner Saumya Agarwal, while briefing media persons on Friday, said all preparations for the Mela had been completed. Along with comprehensive traffic management plans, special attention was given to ensuring basic amenities for pilgrims.

"For the first time, helicopter and paragliding services will be introduced. To promote tourism, popular artistes will perform at the Mela venue,"...