Indian Railways launched a massive coordinated effort across three zones to guarantee safe and seamless travel for devotees attending the Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj. The operation unfolded between January 2 and 16, targeting the heavy influx of pilgrims.
Three Zones Join Forces for Pilgrim Connectivity
The North Central Railway (NCR), Northern Railway (NR), and North Eastern Railway (NER) worked together. They focused on providing excellent connectivity to Prayagraj and nearby districts. Hundreds of special and regular trains kept running throughout the period.
Special Trains Deployed to Handle Pilgrim Rush
Railways pressed 394 mela special trains into service. NCR operated the majority with 298 specials. NR ran 34 services, while NER managed 62. These trains included extended services of existing routes, ring rail operations around Prayagraj, scheduled short-distance shuttles, and additional specials introduced based on real-time passenger demand.
The arrangement ensured uninterrupted movement between the mela area, major Prayagraj stations, and neighboring regions. Regular train operations continued without any break alongside these special services.
Regular Services Maintained Alongside Specials
As many as 2,710 scheduled trains operated during the 15 days. NCR ran 2,408 of these, NR operated 212, and NER handled 90. In total, Indian Railways managed 3,104 trains in the period. This number highlights the enormous scale of logistical planning undertaken for the annual religious congregation.
Top Priority on Punctual and Hassle-Free Movement
Senior PRO of NCR, Amit Malviya, explained the approach. Authorities gave top priority to punctual and hassle-free passenger movement. Special trains received priority in line clearance and platform allocation to minimize waiting times.
Round-the-clock monitoring by control offices played a key role. Railways deployed additional staff at key locations. Close coordination among operating, commercial, electrical, and security departments helped maintain smooth operations throughout the mela.
Enhanced Passenger Amenities at Key Stations
Passenger amenities received significant strengthening at major stations. These included Prayagraj Junction, Prayag, Chheoki, and Naini. Help desks, public address systems, and medical assistance counters were set up to assist devotees.
Enhanced security arrangements provided additional safety. Clear signage and crowd-regulation measures ensured orderly dispersal after major bathing days. The joint effort proved crucial in handling the passenger surge witnessed during Makar Sankranti and the days leading to Mauni Amavasya.
