Prayagraj: To ease influx of over 40 crore devotees to Maha Kumbh 2025, both the Yogi-led state govt and the central govt are working tirelessly to ensure smooth transportation.
A new railway bridge over the Ganga, built for visitors travelling from Varanasi to Prayagraj by train, will significantly ease the journey. The Rs 495 crore bridge, spanning 2,700 meters between Daraganj and Jhunsi, will be operational for rail transport by Dec. While road transport will remain the primary mode of travel during the Maha Kumbh, about 10 crore pilgrims are expected to arrive by train. To manage this volume, the railway authorities are increasing the number of trains and stations, while also relieving congestion with new infrastructure.
The Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) is overseeing the bridge project, which is ready and was inspected by the Chief Railway Safety Commissioner. The double-track bridge is set to help reduce rail traffic pressure, ensuring a smoother experience for pilgrims during the event. Project director, Vinay Agarwal, said, "This bridge has been constructed for Rs 495 crore, which will be opened for rail transport very soon." The single-track Rambagh-Varanasi rail route previously caused extended train stoppages at Jhunsi and Rambagh stations. However, the completion of a new 2,700-meter double-track rail bridge will eliminate these delays, ensuring a smoother journey for passengers. According to Agarwal, during the Maha Kumbh, the state govt is considering plans to disembark passengers arriving from Varanasi at Jhunsi station, from where they will be taken to the Kumbh area. Additionally, a holding area is being constructed at the railway station to manage the crowds.
On regular days, this new rail bridge will improve train operations, reducing passenger congestion at the stations and saving travel time.