Prayagraj is witnessing an unprecedented influx of devotees for Maha Kumbh 2025, prompting the Uttar Pradesh authorities to issue fresh guidelines for bathing and transportation. The advisory, reported by ANI, designates specific ghats for different groups of pilgrims:
- Sangam and nearby ghats for devotees from the Parade Mela region
- Jhunsi bathing ghats for those from the Jhunsi fair area
- Arali ghats for pilgrims coming from the Arali side
To manage the surge in foot traffic, a "No Vehicle" zone has been implemented across the Maha Kumbh region. Only Mela Police-authorized vehicles—including emergency services and logistics trucks—are permitted, while other visitors must use designated parking areas. Authorities have urged devotees to adhere to these rules to ensure smooth transit and a safe pilgrimage.
Special Vande Bharat Trains for Devotees
In a major relief for pilgrims, Northern Railways has announced special Vande Bharat trains between New Delhi and Varanasi (via Prayagraj) on February 15, 16, and 17.
- Train No. 02252: Departs from New Delhi at 5:30 AM, arrives at Varanasi at 2:20 PM (via Prayagraj at 12:00 PM).
- Train No. 02251: Leaves Varanasi at 3:15 PM, reaches New Delhi at 11:50 PM (via Prayagraj at 5:20 PM).
"To provide special facilities to devotees attending Maha Kumbh, Indian Railways is running Vande Bharat special trains," said Northern Railway CPRO Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay.
Maha Kumbh Breaks Global Participation Records
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, Maha Kumbh 2025 has become the first event in the world to attract over 500 million direct participants, surpassing the populations of major nations like Pakistan, Indonesia, Brazil, and the US.
Key bathing events have recorded staggering numbers:
- Paush Purnima – 17 million
- Makar Sankranti – 35 million
- Mauni Amavasya – 76.4 million
- Basant Panchami – 25.7 million
- Magh Purnima – 14 million
