As part of its efforts to ensure smooth, safe and convenient travel for devotees attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the government will launch an online e-rickshaw and e-auto booking system, modeled after platforms like Ola and Uber, with a focus on promoting a Green Maha Kumbh.
The initiative is supported by both government and private transport providers and aims to provide affordable, eco-friendly options for devotees. The e-vehicles, which will be available for online booking starting December 15, will feature fixed fares, ensuring no arbitrary charges.
All drivers will be thoroughly trained in good behaviour and customer service. Additionally, a ‘Pink Taxi’ service will be available, operated by female drivers to ensure the safety and comfort of women devotees.
The government has made extensive transportation arrangements. Over 7,000 roadway buses and 550 shuttle buses will operate, while the railways will run 3,000 trains, including about 1,000 additional ones.
UP’s startup ‘Comfy E Mobility’ is spearheading this initiative, offering an online booking platform for e-rickshaws and e-autos.
To further assist devotees, especially those facing language barriers, drivers will also be trained in Google Voice Assistance. The e-vehicles will be available at key locations such as the railway station, bus stand, airport, and hotels.
Comfy E Mobility founder and director Manu Gupta said that the goal of the initiative was to provide a convenient, safe and environment- friendly app-based e-rickshaw taxi service for devotees coming from across the country and abroad for the Maha Kumbh Mela.
Starting with 300 e-rickshaws, the service will cover the entire Prayagraj and the Kumbh Mela area. All vehicles will be GPS-tracked and fully enclosed for added safety.
Comfy E Mobility CEO RK Chauhan shared that the company, recognised by Startup India, was committed to reducing air pollution and increasing employment opportunities by introducing eco-friendly electric vehicles as taxis. The company sees the Maha Kumbh Mela as a perfect opportunity to launch this initiative.
‘Green Maha Kumbh’
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the development of a ‘Green Maha Kumbh’, aiming to spread the message of a plastic-free environment globally.
To support this vision, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation has launched an extensive city-wide campaign. Two dedicated teams, each with 12 members and six enforcement vehicles, are raising awareness and enforcing rules against the use of plastic.
The city is divided into three nodes and eight zones, with teams promoting alternatives like earthen cups (kulhads), leaf plates (dona and pattal), and cloth and jute bags. Strict measures are in place to discourage single-use plastics, including fines, seizures, and legal action against violators.
Enforcement teams, equipped with trucks, a JCB, guards, and gangmen, are supported by police when needed. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that Maha Kumbh 2025 not only maintains its divine grandeur but also conveys a powerful message of sustainability and cleanliness to the world.
“The Prayagraj Municipal Corporation is dedicated to turning CM Yogi’s vision of a Clean and Green Maha Kumbh into a reality, setting a global example of environmental stewardship,” Municipal Commissioner CM Garg said.
