After the tragic stampede at Delhi railway station, railway stations across Uttar Pradesh are witnessing an unprecedented surge in passengers as devotees head to the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. With trains packed beyond capacity and platforms overflowing, railway authorities have deployed additional security personnel and launched special train services to manage the swelling crowd.
From Delhi to Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Prayagraj, railway stations are packed with pilgrims determined to take a holy dip at the Sangam. However, the journey has become an ordeal for many.
“I have been standing at the station for more than six hours, but every train that arrives is already full,” said Ram Prasad, a devotee from Bihar. “We are forced to sit on the floor of overcrowded general compartments. Even the washrooms are packed with people.”
Sunita Devi, who travelled from Lucknow with her family, described her struggle: “We could not find seats, so we had to stand throughout the journey. The children were crying, but there was no space to even stretch our legs.”
Despite the hardships, many devotees remain resolute. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Kamal Verma from Jhansi. “Even if we have to suffer, we will reach Prayagraj for the holy dip.”
Heavy Rush at Prayagraj railway stations
Prayagraj’s Jhunsi and Cantonment railway stations have turned into sea of humanity, with lakhs of pilgrims arriving. Authorities have enforced strict entry and exit protocols to prevent chaos.
Dr. Amit Malviya, Senior PRO of North Central Railway, assured that operations remain under control: “127 special trains have been deployed so far, with more being added as needed. Regular train schedules are also being maintained.”
However, crowd management remains a challenge. RPF and GRP personnel are struggling to control the sea of passengers. Many elderly and children are finding it difficult to navigate through the jam-packed platforms.
Varanasi and Gorakhpur Railway stations overflowing: In Varanasi, the situation is no different. The Varanasi Cantt railway station is bursting at the seams as returning pilgrims pack trains heading back home. Passengers jostle for space, clinging to doors and windows just to get on board.
In Gorakhpur, authorities were forced to deploy emergency special trains to clear the congestion. Around 1:45 AM, a Chauri Chaura Special train was dispatched to ferry stranded passengers.
Shashikant Tripathi, CPRO of North Central Railway, explained the ongoing efforts: “We have implemented a structured protocol for eight major stations in and around Prayagraj. Dedicated entry and exit points have been set up, and additional trains are being run on demand.”
He said: “With the Maha Kumbh drawing record-breaking crowds, railway officials are on high alert to prevent any further mishaps. While special trains and enhanced security measures are in place, the sheer volume of devotees continues to test the system.”