Indian Railways launches 98 special trains for Maha Kumbh 2025 pilgrims

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Western Railway has introduced special trains to manage the expected surge of devotees heading to the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. The move aims to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient travel for millions of pilgrims attending the sacred event.

Ajay Solanki, the Public Relations Officer of the Ahmedabad Division Railway, announced that 98 special trains have been launched to cater to the large number of passengers. He emphasized that passenger comfort, cleanliness, and the proper functioning of electrical appliances have been prioritized in the arrangements. Additionally, Railway Protection Force (RPF) teams have been stationed at stations for security and guidance.

"For the convenience of passengers, Western Railway is running Kumbh special trains and denoting them through flex painting... Hygiene and the working of electric appliances are being taken care of... Up till now, 98 special trains have been started... RPF teams have been deployed at stations to guide passengers and security," Solanki said.

Indian Railways to operate over 10,000 trains for the event

To manage the massive crowd expected for the Mahakumbh, Indian Railways has announced a comprehensive travel plan. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information and Publicity at the Railway Board, confirmed that more than 10,000 trains will operate, including 3,300 special trains, to accommodate the millions of devotees traveling to witness the Sangam Snan.

Kumar also outlined special crowd control measures, including color-coded waiting areas at stations for unreserved passengers to ensure order and safety. RPF and Government Railway Police (GRP) officers will oversee the safe movement of passengers from holding areas to their designated trains.

45 crore devotees expected at Maha Kumbh 2025

The Maha Kumbh Mela, held once every 12 years, is expected to attract over 45 crore (450 million) devotees. The central event will take place at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, where pilgrims gather to take a holy dip believed to wash away sins and provide moksha (liberation). The primary bathing rituals, or Shahi Snan, will occur on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).

With these special trains and enhanced security measures, Western Railway and Indian Railways aim to ensure a safe and smooth journey for all those attending this historic spiritual event.

Agency