Indian Railways Operates Record 360 Trains from Prayagraj for Mauni Amavasya, 2025 Maha Kumbh
In a significant move to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims during the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela, Indian Railways is operating an unprecedented 360 trains from Prayagraj station. This includes 190 special trains, 110 regular trains, and 50-60 MEMU trains to manage the increased demand for travel, particularly ahead of Mauni Amavasya, the most auspicious day of the festival. The trains are being run by three railway zones — Northern Railway (NR), North Eastern Railway (NER), and North Central Railway (NCR), ensuring seamless connectivity for millions of devotees.
Indian Railway Board Chairman and CEO, Satish Kumar, highlighted the historic scale of operations, with a train running every four minutes, ensuring uninterrupted travel for the pilgrims. The move is part of a larger effort by the railways to facilitate smooth travel during the ongoing Maha Kumbh and to support the expected surge of visitors for Mauni Amavasya.
Kumar also mentioned that Indian Railways has invested ₹5,000 crore in infrastructure development in and around Prayagraj to ensure the event runs smoothly. Key upgrades include the construction of new Road Under Bridges (RUBs) and Road Over Bridges (ROBs), track doubling, and station enhancements. These initiatives have significantly increased the capacity of the rail network, decongesting crucial routes and enabling this record-breaking train service.
Passenger amenities at stations have been greatly enhanced to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for pilgrims. All stations in Prayagraj are equipped with newly constructed toilets, drinking water facilities, and food courts. In emergencies, first aid booths and medical observation rooms are available for immediate assistance. Dedicated Yatri Suvidha Kendras at Prayagraj Junction and Prayagraj Chheoki stations provide support for passengers, offering services such as wheelchairs, luggage trolleys, hotel and taxi bookings, and essential supplies like baby milk and medicines.
To manage the crowds effectively, Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel have been deployed at stations to ensure smooth boarding and deboarding. Special teams have been formed to ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Kumbh. Colour-coded tickets and designated Ashriya Asthals (boarding points) have been introduced for better crowd control. RPF personnel are guiding devotees from these designated points to their respective trains.
Holding areas have been set up both at Prayagraj station and outside, providing food, water, and other essential services for up to one lakh pilgrims at a time. These areas are equipped with medical teams to offer immediate care if needed. The authorities have also installed numerous CCTV cameras across stations to monitor crowd movement and divert pilgrims to less crowded areas for better safety and comfort.
Satish Kumar expressed appreciation for the exceptional arrangements made by the Uttar Pradesh state government for the convenience of the devotees, including provisions for accommodation and food. In coordination with the state government, Indian Railways has established multiple holding areas where pilgrims can wait comfortably in tents, with food and multilingual information displays. One of the largest of these areas is Khusro Bagh, located just outside Prayagraj station, which can accommodate up to one lakh passengers at a time.
With these extensive efforts, Indian Railways is playing a crucial role in ensuring the safe and comfortable travel of millions of devotees attending the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela.
