In a significant move to facilitate the massive influx of pilgrims expected for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, the Indian Railways, in collaboration with the Nashik district administration, is actively considering the development of Ghoti railway station. This strategic initiative aims to streamline travel and enhance crowd management for devotees heading to the sacred town of Trimbakeshwar.
High-Level Meeting Charts Out Crowd Management Plan
A crucial meeting was recently convened, bringing together officials from the Indian Railways and various state government departments. The assembly included representatives from the Nashik Municipal Corporation, police, and the public works department, operating under the framework of the district disaster management plan. The primary agenda was to deliberate on comprehensive strategies for crowd management and smooth railway operations during the monumental religious gathering.
District Collector Ayush Prasad, who also chairs the District Disaster Management Authority, revealed that a wide array of options were examined. "During the meeting, a large number of options were discussed, especially the holding areas for the pilgrims deboarding and boarding the trains," Prasad stated. He further confirmed that the authorities explored the possibilities of developing both Ghoti Railway Station and Umbermali Station in Thane district to specifically cater to the pilgrims travelling towards Trimbakeshwar.
Multi-Station Development Strategy for Pilgrim Reception
The railway's blueprint extends beyond Ghoti. A holistic plan is in place for the development of Nashik and four neighbouring stations: Deolali, Odha, Kherwadi, and Kasbe Sukene. Each of these stations will be strategically dedicated to receiving pilgrims arriving from specific directions across the country, thereby distributing the passenger load and preventing bottleneck situations at a single point.
Simultaneously, a sharp focus is on decongesting the primary entry point, Nashik Road Railway Station. A senior administration officer disclosed that "the administration has also asked the railway authorities to present their decongestion plans at Nashik Road Railway Station." The ongoing efforts there include the setting up of ramps and increasing the number of foot overbridges to ensure safe and efficient movement of passengers across the tracks.
Focus on Return Journey and Holistic Planning
The administration's planning is notably comprehensive, addressing not just the arrival but also the departure of pilgrims. Significant attention is being paid to managing the crowd movement towards railway stations when devotees begin their journey back home. This two-way traffic management is considered critical for maintaining order and safety throughout the entire duration of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela.
By proactively developing infrastructure at secondary stations like Ghoti and enhancing capacity at the main hub, authorities aim to create a seamless and secure travel experience for the millions of faithful. This coordinated approach between the Railways and the district disaster management team underscores a committed effort to host one of the world's largest religious gatherings with efficiency and foresight.
