The Railway Ministry is making extensive preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela, planning to operate 992 special trains and allocating ₹933 crore for infrastructure and amenity improvements. This massive religious event is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from January 12, with an expected turnout of 30 to 50 crore devotees.
Enhancing Railway Infrastructure for Seamless Travel
To ensure smooth travel for pilgrims, the Railway Ministry is investing approximately ₹3,700 crore to double the railway tracks in the Prayagraj Division and surrounding areas. This initiative aims to facilitate efficient train movement, especially during the peak times of the Kumbh Mela.
Strategic Oversight by Railway Officials
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with deputies Ravneet Singh Bittu and V. Somanna, is actively overseeing preparations. They have been conducting regular meetings and video conferences with senior railway officials and general managers from specific zones to ensure that all necessary measures are in place for the anticipated surge in passenger traffic.
Learning from Past Experiences
Drawing insights from the previous Kumbh Mela in 2019, which attracted over 24 crore attendees, the Railway Ministry has decided to increase the number of special trains by 42% compared to the last event. This proactive approach is aimed at effectively meeting the transportation needs of the massive influx of devotees.
Significant Infrastructure Investments
In addition to the special trains, substantial funds have been allocated for various infrastructure upgrades. Approximately ₹440 crore is designated for constructing road overbridges, while another ₹495 crore will be used for road repairs, installing CCTV cameras, and enhancing passenger amenities, including additional accommodation units, waiting rooms, and medical facilities at stations.
Progress in Railway Infrastructure
Railway officials report that the doubling of rail lines between Varanasi and Jhusi has been successfully completed, marking significant progress in the railway infrastructure ahead of the Kumbh Mela. Furthermore, the completion of the Dedicated Freight Corridor will help ease operational pressures on Indian Railway lines, thereby improving the efficiency of passenger train services.
Commitment to Pilgrim Safety and Efficiency
With these meticulous preparations and robust infrastructure enhancements, the Railway Ministry is well-equipped to accommodate the millions of devotees expected at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The focus remains on creating a safe and efficient travel experience for all pilgrims attending this sacred event.
