In preparation for the grand Mahakumbh Mela 2025, the Ahmedabad Railway Division is launching 34 new train services to facilitate seamless travel for pilgrims. Ajay Solanki, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Ahmedabad Railway, stated, ‘’Western Railway is commencing 98 special train services, out of which 34 are being inaugurated by the Ahmedabad division to major destinations like Rajkot-Banaras and Sabarmati-Banaras.‘’
Railway protection teams have been deployed across the stations for ensuring the safety of passengers and crowd management. Pilgrims can now be able to plan their travel well in advance for the religious occasion as booking for these special trains has begun.
The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing itself for the massive Mahakumbh Mela, which will be celebrated in Prayagraj from January 10 to February 24, 2025. In terms of transportation, more than 5000 buses and 550 electric vehicles have been arranged in anticipation of the millions of devotees that are expected to visit the holy place. According to Additional District Magistrate Vivek Chaturvedi, temporary bus stands are under construction for managing peak day traffic.
Special Services for pilgrims
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is making sure to provide top-tier amenities for devotees. Accommodation of more than 1 lakh passengers and around 3,000 special trains will be operating. Moreover, a luxury tent has also been set up by the name Mahakumbh Gram near Triveni Sangam. The tent will offer premium lodging as well as comfortable options for visitors.
The Mahakumbh will also serve as a platform to display India’s rich cultural heritage. Under the leadership of Uttar Pradesh Culture Department, the event will also showcase vibrant folk art and performances. The main bathing festivals called as ‘’Shahi Snan’’, are slated to take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti, January 29 (Mauni Amavasya) and on February 3 (Basant Panchami).
(With inputs from ANI)