<span style="color: #222222;">The Gangasagar Mela will begin today in West Bengal. Millions of pilgrims visit the Gangasagar Mela during the Makar Sankranti festival. <br />'' <br />'' This year the Mela will continue till 17th of this month. The Shahi Snan will be held on 15th &16th January. All security arrangements have been made by the state police and NDRF -SDRF team will be on the guard. The Kapil Muni Mandir and adjoining 5 roads have been decorated. Vigilance from Babughat to Sagar have already been started. Coast Guard is also doing it's part. There are mainly two entry points for pilgrims to enter the Gangasagar Mela namely Kakdwip lot no 8 and Namkhana Chemaguri sector.</span> <br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">However, the state government is concerned this year for the sea erosion at lane no 2. The erosion has already progresses upto 200 meters. Lakhs of pilgrims across India and West Bengal come to Gangasagar Mela every year. This year the number is expected to rise.<br />''</span><br />'' <b><span style="color: #222222;">West Bengal Chief </span></b><span style="color: #222222;">Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the Gangasagar Mela today. The Mela will continue till 17th of January. The 'Shahi Snan' will be held on 15th and 16th January. Chief Minister has inaugurated nine projects today at Sagar. She informed that the state government has sent a letter to UNESCO to declare Gangasagar Mela a heritage site. She told that this year pilgrimage tax has been waived off for the pilgrims, instead 5 lakhs rupees insurance will be given to all. Ms Banerjee told that concerned departments' ministers have been given charge for all the necessary arrangements. As Kumbh Mela is not coinciding with Gangasagar Mela this year, a large number of people are expected to visit Sagar.</span><br />