Indian Railways has unveiled plans to operate 13,000 train services for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, expecting a record 40 crore devotees. This includes 3,134 special trains, nearly 4.5 times the number provided during the 2019 Prayagraj Ardh Kumbh, supplementing 10,000 regular services. With a commitment to ensuring seamless travel for pilgrims, significant improvements in railway infrastructure, worth INR 5,000 crore, have been undertaken, including doubling key railway lines.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of Hinduism’s largest religious events, begins on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj and concludes on February 26, 2025. Key bathing dates include Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), and Basant Panchami (February 3). Indian Railways will operate 1,869 short-distance trains, 706 long-distance trains, and 559 ring trains, a new service for very short travel routes, to manage the overwhelming influx of pilgrims.
Special trains will connect cities like Una, Guntur, Jaynagar, and Moula Ali with Prayagraj, accommodating both short- and long-distance travellers. To further support devotees, Indian Railways has set up medical booths and small hospitals at major stations, ensuring 24/7 first-aid services and trained staff to address health concerns during the event.
IRCTC has introduced a temporary ‘tent city’ in Prayagraj to provide accommodation for devotees. With upgraded facilities and a focus on health and safety, the railways aim to make the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 a seamless and spiritually enriching experience for all attendees.