Special Train Services for Maha Kumbh- In a bid to ensure a smooth and safe journey for millions of devotees arriving for Makar Sankranti on January 14, the Prayagraj Railway Division has devised a comprehensive action plan. Over 1 crore pilgrims are expected to take a sacred dip at Sangam, making crowd management and efficient transportation crucial during the auspicious Maha Kumbh 2025.

In expectation of the massive influx of devotees, the Prayagraj Railway Division plans to operate approximately 13,000 trains, including 3,000 special trains exclusively for the fair. These services aim to prevent overcrowding and ensure seamless travel for pilgrims. Designated entry and exit points have been set up at key stations to manage the flow of passengers effectively.

Special Trains for Religious Pilgrims Traveling Between Katra and Prayagraj

Union Minister and Member of Parliament from Udhampur, Jitendra Singh, announced plans to introduce three special trains to accommodate pilgrims attending a significant religious event. These trains will run between Katra and Prayagraj, providing enhanced convenience for devotees. The first train is scheduled to run on 24th January from Katra Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station to Prayagraj and it  will back on 26th January.

Detailed Schedule for the First Special Train

Departure from Katra (SVDK): January 24, 2025, at 03:50 am
Arrival at Prayagraj (PRYJ): January 25, 2025, at 05:45 am
Return from PRYJ : January 26, 2025, at 3.15 am
Arrival at Katra (SVDK): January 27, 2025, at 05:05 am

The schedule for the other two special trains will be shared soon, as confirmed by officials.

North Central Railway Get Ready for Maha Kumbh
To control the likey surge of pilgrims traveling for the Maha Kumbh, the NCR is planning to operate over 300 trains, which includes 80 special train services dedicated to ensuring smooth transportation for devotees.

Station-Wise Arrangements in Prayagraj

Each station under the Prayagraj Railway Division has specific entry and exit points to manage the rush. Key details include:

• Prayagraj Junction: Entry is through Platform Number 1, the city-side & the exit is on Civil-Line side. Unreserved passengers will be guided to their platforms via dedicated waiting shelters, while reserved passengers can enter through Gate No. 5.
• Phaphamau Station: Entry is through Platform No. 4's second entrance, and exit leads to Phaphamau Market.
• Subedarganj Station: Entry and exit points are located on Jhalwa-Kaushambi Road and GT Road, respectively.
• Rambagh Station: The main gate at Hanuman Mandir Chauraha serves as the entry point, while Lower Road is the designated exit.

Preparations to Ensure Pilgrim Comfort

The Prayagraj Railway Division has implemented several measures, including additional ticket booking counters, enhanced train services, and strengthened security arrangements. Shashi Kant Tripathi, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of the North Central Railways (NCR), highlighted these efforts, emphasizing their commitment to accommodating the needs of all passengers.

Train Services to Begin January 14

Unreserved short-distance regular trains are set to commence operations tomorrow, aligning with the first day of the Maha Kumbh. NCR officials have also ensured that over 300 trains, including 80 special services, will be available to facilitate efficient transportation for pilgrims.

NCR's Advanced Preparations

According to Shashi Kant Tripathi, preparations for Maha Kumbh began two years ago. Long-distance special trains started operations on January 1, with 50 trains in service. With more than 80 Mela Special Trains operating, the total train count will reach 300,” he stated.
As Makar Sankranti approaches, inward special train services have also commenced to cater to the influx of devotees, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all.