Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Indian Railways’ Comprehensive Travel Plans for Devotees

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj is scheduled from January 13 to February 26, 2025. It is anticipated to be the largest spiritual gathering globally, with an expected attendance of over 400 million pilgrims. This sacred event, held every 12 years, draws millions of devotees seeking spiritual purification at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. In preparation for this massive influx, Indian Railways has announced comprehensive travel plans to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees. Keep reading to know it all!

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Enhanced Train Services

To accommodate the anticipated influx of pilgrims, Indian Railways plans to operate over 13,000 trains during the event, including 3,000 special services. This includes 560 trains dedicated to the ring rail network, facilitating seamless travel for devotees.

Infrastructure Upgrades

Significant investments have been made to enhance infrastructure at key stations:

• Financial Investment: Over ₹5,000 crore has been allocated in the past two years for special arrangements.
• Station Enhancements: Upgrades include additional platforms, ticket counters, inquiry booths, and modern digital information systems at stations like Prayagraj Junction, Naini, Jhusi, and Phaphamau.
• Security Measures: Installation of 1,400 CCTV cameras and 200 face recognition cameras, along with a 24/7 surveillance system at Prayagraj Junction, ensures enhanced security.

Also Read: Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Digital Ticketing Initiatives

To streamline the ticketing process and reduce queues:

• Mobile Ticketing: Railway staff will wear QR code-enabled jackets, allowing pilgrims to scan and download the UTS app for unreserved ticket bookings.
• Kumbh Rail Seva App: This app provides detailed information on train schedules, accommodations, and emergency services, assisting pilgrims in travel planning.

Safety and Crowd Management

To manage the large number of visitors:

• Personnel Deployment: More than 18,000 personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) will be deployed to ensure safety.
• Control Rooms: Control rooms at each station will provide live feeds to a master control room at Prayagraj Junction for effective crowd management.

Medical Facilities

To address health emergencies:

• Observation Rooms: Six-bed observation rooms equipped with oxygen cylinders, ECG machines, and other essential equipment will be available at key stations.

Accommodation Options

For the convenience of pilgrims:

• Tent City: IRCTC has launched the ‘Mahakumbh Gram Tent City’ near Bathing Ghats, offering premium accommodations with modern amenities.

These comprehensive measures by Indian Railways aim to provide a safe, comfortable, and very efficient travel experience for the millions of devotees attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will Indian Railways provide free train services during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025?

No, Indian Railways has clarified that there are no provisions for free travel during the Maha Kumbh Mela. Therefore, traveling without a valid ticket is strictly prohibited and constitutes a punishable offense.

How can I book tickets for the special trains during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025?

Tickets for special trains can be booked through the official IRCTC website or mobile app. For unreserved tickets, the UTS app is available, and railway staff with QR code-enabled jackets will assist passengers in downloading the app for seamless booking.

What medical facilities will be available at railway stations during the event?

Key stations will have six-bed observation rooms equipped with oxygen cylinders, ECG machines, and other essential equipment to address medical emergencies.

Are there any special accommodations provided by Indian Railways for pilgrims?

Yes, IRCTC has launched the ‘Mahakumbh Gram Tent City’ near Bathing Ghats in Prayagraj. They will offer premium accommodations with modern amenities for pilgrims.

How is Indian Railways ensuring security during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025?

Over 18,000 personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) will be deployed. Additionally, 1,400 CCTV cameras and 200 face recognition cameras have been installed, along with a 24/7 surveillance system at Prayagraj Junction.