Indian Railways to Operate 13,000 Trains for Maha Kumbh 2025
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announces extensive rail preparations, including 3,000 special trains and new infrastructure, to accommodate millions of pilgrims in Prayagraj.
- The Indian Railways will run 13,000 trains, including 3,000 special trains, during the 45-day Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025.
- Approximately ₹5,000 crore has been invested over two years to enhance rail infrastructure and services for the event, which is expected to draw 1.5 to 2 crore passengers by train.
- Key upgrades include a new rail bridge over the Ganga, doubling of tracks on the Prayagraj-Varanasi route, 48 new platforms, 21 foot overbridges, and 554 ticketing kiosks.
- A color-coded system for tickets and holding areas has been implemented to streamline passenger movement, and mobile ticketing via the UTS app will be introduced in Prayagraj for the first time.
- Enhanced security measures include 20,000 additional personnel, integrated control rooms, and multilingual staff to assist pilgrims from diverse regions.