Maha Kumbh 2025: 40 Crore People Expected At Prayagraj, Indian Railways Gears Up With 13,000 Trains

Approximately 400 million people are expected to attend the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, according to the North Central Railway.

"The administration has given us an estimate that around 40 crore people will reach during the Kumbh Mela. Crowd management is a big subject for us," said Shashikant Tripathi, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Central Railway, to ANI.

Photo Credit: PTI

Mr Tripathi also mentioned that the North Central Railway has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure a smooth and safe experience for pilgrims.

Detailing the arrangements, he explained, "The movement of people will be kept unidirectional to avoid crisscross movements. Passengers will be taken to 'Yatri-Kendra' before going to their respective platforms to avoid confusion and unnecessary congestion on the platforms."

Indian Railways, he added, will operate 13,000 trains, including 10,000 regular services and 3,000 special trains, to manage the massive influx of visitors.

He further stated, "During the Kumbh Mela, we will run 13,000 trains. There are around 700 Mela special trains for long-distance. Around 1,800 short-distance trains will operate for 200-300 kilometres. We are also running a ring rail for those who want to go to Chitrakoot, Banaras and Ayodhya, including Prayagraj."

Held every 12 years, the Kumbh Mela is scheduled to take place at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Sarasvati rivers in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. The event will feature a grand celebration with various spiritual, cultural, and tourist attractions.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Response Force conducted a mock drill on Saturday with local agencies to ensure the smooth organisation of the event, it said in a statement.