To accommodate the anticipated surge of pilgrims for the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has announced additional special trains. NFR CPRO K K Sharma stated that two pairs of special trains will operate between Jogbani and Tundla, catering to devotees travelling to the grand religious event.
Special train No. 05718 will depart from Jogbani at 6.40 p.m. on 14 February, reaching Tundla at 7 p.m. the next day. Its return journey (train No. 05717) will leave Tundla at 9.40 on 16 February, arriving at Jogbani at 2.20 a.m. on 18 February. Similarly, train No. 05720 will depart Jogbani at 6.40 p.m. on 15 February, reaching Tundla at 7 pm the following day, with its return (train No. 05719) scheduled from Tundla at 9.40 p.m. on 17 February, arriving at Jogbani at 2.20 a.m. on 19 February. These trains, comprising 22 coaches including AC-2 tier, AC-3 tier, sleeper class, and general sitting coaches, will halt at key stations like Forbesganj, Katihar, Barauni, Patliputra, Prayagraj, and Etawah.
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Additionally, a one-way special train (No. 05841) will run from Rangapara North to Tundla, departing at 5.30 p.m. on 15 February and arriving at 6.30 a.m. on 17 February. NFR is also operating a daily pair of Maghi Purnima special trains (Nos. 07540 and 07539) between Katihar and Manihari until 21 February, featuring eight coaches for passenger convenience.
Mr Sharma emphasised that these initiatives aim to provide comfortable and hassle-free travel for pilgrims. Passengers are advised to check stoppages and timings on the IRCTC website or NFR’s social media platforms before planning their journey.
