The Mauni Amavasya at the Mahakumbh, a grand festival of faith, witnessed more than eight crore devotees taking a holy dip in the Sangam.
The flow of devotees continued into the second day of the festival with about two crore devotees taking the sacred bath on January 30.
Mauni Amavasya, the most significant festival of the Mahakumbh, witnessed an unprecedented gathering of devotees in Prayagraj. A record-breaking 8 crore pilgrims took a holy dip in the sacred Triveni Sangam on the first day, followed by another two crore on the second day.
To ensure the safe and smooth movement of crores of devotees, the Prayagraj Railway Division operated a record number of over 400 Mela Special trains in the past two days, successfully transporting more than 20 lakh devotees to their destination stations.
In view of the massive crowd, pilgrims were sent safely through designated holding areas and color-coded shelters, railway officials here on Friday said.
On January 29, over 400 Mela Special trains departed from various railway stations across the city. On January 30, an additional 300 trains, including approximately 175 special trains, were run. In just two days, the Prayagraj Railway Division successfully facilitated the travel of over 20 lakh devotees, ensuring a smooth and organised return journey for all.
Prayagraj Railway Administration announced that over 700 regular and fair special trains were successfully operated during the Mauni Amavasya festival and its second day. Most of these trains were operated from Prayagraj Junction, and special trains were also run from Naini, Chheoki, Subedarganj (NCR), Prayag, Phaphamau (NR), and Rambagh and Jhunsi stations (Northeast Railway).
To ensure seamless crowd management at railway stations, a pre-planned strategy was implemented, guiding pilgrims to their respective trains through designated holding areas, color-coded shelter spaces, and color tickets.
Additionally, essential amenities such as healthcare, drinking water, and toilet facilities were made available at all stations, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for devotees. On the day of the festival, senior railway officials closely monitored and managed crowd movement from the control room and watch towers, ensuring smooth operations and preventing congestion.