Preparations for the grand Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, are underway at an unparalleled scale, with Indian Railways announcing 3,000 special trains to manage the influx of millions of devotees. The event, set to begin on January 13, 2025, at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, promises modern amenities and extensive infrastructure to cater to the spiritual needs of visitors.
Expanded Rail Network and Early Ticket Bookings
Indian Railways will run a total of 13,000 trains, including 10,000 regular services and 3,000 special trains. To enhance connectivity, 560 trains will operate on Ring Rail routes such as Prayagraj-Ayodhya-Varanasi and Jhansi-Govindpuri-Prayagraj.
To streamline travel plans, advance booking for special trains will be available 15 days before the journey. Ticketing facilities have been set up across nine major stations, including Prayagraj Junction, Naini, and Subedarganj, with 560 counters ready to issue approximately 1 million tickets daily.
Security and Medical Readiness
With safety as a top priority, Indian Railways is deploying over 18,000 personnel from the Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) and State Reserve Police (SRP). State-of-the-art monitoring systems, including 1,186 CCTV cameras with AI-enabled features, are being installed at Prayagraj Junction to ensure real-time surveillance.
Medical emergencies will be handled through six-bed observation rooms equipped with advanced medical devices like oxygen concentrators, ECG machines, nebulisers, and stretchers, offering immediate care to pilgrims.
Infrastructure for Comfort and Sustainability
Massive infrastructure developments are being implemented to accommodate the spiritual gathering:
- Accommodation: Construction of 1.60 lakh tents for devotees.
- Sanitation: Installation of 1.5 lakh toilets, supported by 15,000 sanitation workers for round-the-clock cleanliness.
- Water Supply: A 1,250-km pipeline to provide adequate water.
- Lighting and Greening: Over 67,000 LED fixtures, 2,000 solar lights, and planting of 3 lakh trees to create a sustainable and visually appealing environment.
Connectivity enhancements include seven newly constructed bus terminals, nine permanent ghats, and temporary riverfront roads spanning 12 kilometers for easy accessibility.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Mahakumbh 2025 is shaping up to be an event of historical significance, blending spirituality with modern conveniences. The Indian Railways and other departments are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety, comfort, and spiritual fulfillment of millions expected to attend this grand event.