In anticipation of the enormous surge of devotees expected for the Magh Mela in 2026, the Indian Railways has rolled out a comprehensive and coordinated plan across major stations in the Prayagraj region. The extensive arrangements focus on ensuring secure, orderly, and comfortable travel for millions of pilgrims converging for the sacred event.
Enhanced Security and Crowd Management Systems
Amit Kumar Singh, the Public Relations Officer for the Prayagraj Division of North Central Railway, outlined the special measures put in place for the mela period. A primary focus has been on managing large crowds and guaranteeing passenger safety. To prevent bottlenecks and regulate the flow of people, separate entry and exit points have been established at key stations including Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Chheoki, Naini, and Subedarganj.
On major bathing days, a strict one-way movement plan will be enforced. This system will be active from one day before the festival until two days after, ensuring an uninterrupted and smooth flow of passengers. Security has been significantly bolstered with extra personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), Civil Defence, and volunteers from Bharat Scouts and Guides. Furthermore, all stations are under 24/7 surveillance through a network of CCTV cameras to monitor crowd movement in real-time.
Passenger Facilities and Hassle-Free Travel
The railway administration has taken significant steps to facilitate a convenient journey for all pilgrims. To reduce queues and waiting times, additional ticket counters, mobile ticketing units, and digital ticketing services have been made available. Special attention is being given to vulnerable passengers.
Senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities will have access to dedicated assistance. This includes the provision of wheelchairs, battery-operated vehicles, help desks, and a toll-free helpline number (1800 4199 139). A direction-wise colour-coding system has also been implemented to help pilgrims navigate the stations easily.
Focus on Health, Cleanliness, and Information
Cleanliness and public health are top priorities during the mela. Regular sanitation drives are being conducted, with additional toilets and drinking water counters installed across station premises. Medical aid centres have been set up, and notably, a fully equipped medical observation room with doctors and paramedical staff is operational at Prayagraj Junction.
To keep passengers well-informed, multilingual public announcement systems, information boards, and digital display panels have been deployed. Volunteers are stationed throughout the stations to guide devotees. For added convenience, the railways is running special trains, including the Ring Rail Service, to cater specifically to the pilgrim traffic.
The railway administration, through PRO Amit Kumar Singh, has appealed to all passengers to adhere to the issued guidelines and cooperate with officials. This collective effort is crucial to ensure a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling journey for everyone attending the Magh Mela–2026 in Prayagraj.
