CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Indian Railways Redefines Its Role for Maha Kumbh 2025 Pilgrimage
For Maha Kumbh 2025, Indian Railways has redefined its role in facilitating the smooth travel of millions of pilgrims to the holy city of Prayagraj. Beyond transportation, the railways have also successfully integrated world-class hospitality services. With major infrastructure upgrades, innovative solutions, and a commitment to inclusivity, Indian Railways is setting new operational benchmarks for this grand religious event.
Modern Infrastructure Enhancing Spiritual Journeys
Indian Railways has played a crucial role in enhancing the pilgrimage experience at the sacred Sangam. Over the last decade, the Government of India has significantly increased funding for railway infrastructure in Prayagraj. In preparation for Maha Kumbh, over ₹5,000 crore has been invested in the past two years to transform railway stations into comfortable, convenient, and spiritually enriching hubs.
Previously, railway stations were merely transit points for travelers. Now, they serve as welcoming gateways for pilgrims, featuring sleeping pods, executive lounges, and retiring rooms. Color-coded passenger shelters, directional signboards, and easy-to-read color-coded tickets have been introduced to ensure hassle-free navigation for visitors. These improvements have significantly enhanced the pilgrimage experience, allowing devotees to find all essential amenities upon arrival.
New Shelters and Enhanced Services for the Masses
With an expected daily footfall of nearly 10 million pilgrims, providing adequate shelter and services is a massive challenge. To meet this demand, Indian Railways has constructed 17 new passenger shelters and expanded station capacities to accommodate over 1,10,000 passengers, a significant increase from the previous 21,000 capacity.
Additionally, with the construction of new platforms, the total number now stands at 48, ensuring better accessibility for pilgrims. Advanced facilities such as toilets, drinking water stations, baby feeding pods, and medical check-up rooms have also been introduced. Moreover, uninterrupted power supply and backup systems ensure seamless operations even during peak demand.
Inclusive and Accessible Travel Experience
Indian Railways has made significant strides in making Maha Kumbh 2025 more accessible and comfortable for all. The introduction of passenger assistance centers, wheelchair services, “May I Help You” booths, and logistic trolleys marks a major initiative toward inclusivity. Key stations like Prayagraj Junction and Chheoki have been specially equipped to provide a smooth and comfortable travel experience.
In line with the Sugamya Bharat Mission, Indian Railways has increased the number of lifts and escalators to enhance accessibility for elderly passengers and people with disabilities. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, from senior citizens to differently-abled individuals, can easily participate in this sacred gathering.
Maha Kumbh: A New Benchmark for the Future
By seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, Indian Railways has created an enhanced, comfortable, and technologically advanced pilgrimage experience. It is not just facilitating travel but redefining pilgrimage hospitality by setting new benchmarks in services and infrastructure.
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