The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has launched a comprehensive transportation plan for the upcoming Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. To ensure smooth and efficient travel for the millions of pilgrims expected to travel, UPSRTC has positioned 350 shuttle buses. Moreover, a dedicated team of 22 officers will be handling the operational system to ensure seamless coordination is maintained during the event. Anurag Yadav has been appointed as the Service Manager in Moradabad to lead this initiative as the religious event is scheduled to commence on January 13, 2025.
Quick Response Team deployed on main routes
The Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been deployed on all seven major routes heading to Prayagraj to strengthen emergency response capabilities. These teams will be armed with interceptor vehicles, and will also have trained staff for managing operational and technical risks along with Transportation Corporation enforcement officers. Their main objective will be to provide immediate aid and ease the disruption during the event.
A temporary workshop will be set up near the bus stations to resolve any technical glitches faced by the buses coming from different regions. Additionally, eight temporary bus stations will also be built within the Kumbh Mela area to handle the massive number of visitors. Each station will be monitored by Chief Manager-level officers and will also be assisted by the retired advisors.
Additional services for key bathing dates
During the peak days, UPSRTC also plans to allocate 2,000 buses during the first phase of the religious event. The fleet will be further expanded to 7,000 buses, inclusive of 6,800 ordinary buses and 200 AC buses during the second phase of the main bathing date. There is also a plan to provide eco-friendly transport options by allotting 200 city electric buses to operate as shuttles on the main dates.
Transport Corporation MD Masoom Ai Sarwar shared details with ANI on the ongoing preparations under the supervision of Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh. Mobile dispensing units or browsers have been set up at temporary depots to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply. Gaurav Verma has been recruited as the fair officer to look after these efforts.
UPSRTC has also set up a toll-free helpline for the devotees (1800 1802 877) and a WhatsApp number (9415049606) for assistance and support. Both the numbers will be functional 24*7 and will provide real-time help.
(With inputs from ANI)