Tue Jan 14 09:32:41 UTC 2025: ## Kumbh Mela: Millions of Pilgrims Converge on Prayagraj Amidst Massive Transportation Effort

**Prayagraj, India** – The ongoing Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is drawing millions of pilgrims from across India, creating a massive logistical challenge. Authorities are deploying a multi-modal transportation network to ensure smooth movement of devotees to the sacred gathering.

Prayagraj Airport is experiencing a surge in activity, with direct flights from major cities including Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Raipur, Lucknow, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Guwahati. Over 150 VIP private flights are expected to land, exceeding the airport’s capacity, prompting the use of airstrips in neighboring districts and states.

The Indian Railways is playing a crucial role, operating over 13,000 trains – including 3,000 special trains – to transport pilgrims from across the country. Senior Public Relations Officer Amit Malviya of the North Central Railway confirmed the scale of the operation, emphasizing the effort to ensure convenient travel for all devotees. The Railways has launched a Rail Seva app and distributed multilingual pamphlets at stations to aid pilgrims. A color-coded system is in place at Prayagraj and nearby railway stations to guide travelers to the Kumbh Mela grounds.

The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) is further supplementing transport with over 7,000 buses operating from all districts. Temporary bus stands have been set up outside the city in addition to existing stations to manage the expected crowds. Smaller passenger vehicles are readily available to transport devotees from these stations to the mela grounds. To ease congestion on main bathing days, buses will primarily operate from these temporary stands, diverting traffic from the city center.

Nine railway stations within Prayagraj – Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Sangam, and seven others – are serving the influx of pilgrims. From these stations, e-rickshaws, tempos, and private taxis are available to transport pilgrims to the mela parking areas, from where they can walk to the Sangam for the holy dip. Similarly, airport arrivals can use private taxis or city buses to reach the parking. Clear signage and on-the-ground assistance from police and volunteers are in place to guide pilgrims to the Sangam.

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