Prayagraj: More than 16,000 trains were operated for the Maha Kumbh, facilitating the travel of nearly five crore devotees to the pilgrimage, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday.
Addressing the media, Vaishnaw, who was in Prayagraj to commend railway workers for their efforts during the Maha Kumbh Mela, highlighted the significant increase in train services compared to the previous Kumbh in 2019.
“In 2019, approximately 4,000 trains were operated. This time, we planned for over three times that number, but in reality, we managed to operate four times as many. Preparations for this massive operation had been ongoing for two-and-a-half years,” the minister stated.
Vaishnaw further elaborated, “More than 16,000 trains transported 4.5 to 5 crore passengers to and from the Maha Kumbh. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all railway workers who collaborated to make this possible.”
Emphasizing teamwork, he remarked, “The biggest achievement of this Maha Kumbh was the seamless coordination between State and Central departments along with railway employees. When we work together as one, nothing is impossible.”
The railway minister also revealed that an investment of approximately Rs 5,000 crore was made for railway infrastructure in preparation for the Maha Kumbh. This included the construction of more than 21 flyovers and underpasses, as well as a new bridge over the River Ganga.
“To ensure smooth passenger movement, holding areas were created at every station. Additionally, new types of foot overbridges were installed, with all arrangements designed to enhance passenger convenience,” Vaishnaw added.
The Maha Kumbh, which commenced on January 13 in Prayagraj, concluded on February 26, marking another historic religious gathering facilitated by the Indian Railways.
