Indian Railways set a remarkable record during the Maha Kumbh 2025 by operating over 15,000 trains in just 42 days, far surpassing the initial target of 13,500 trains.
This record-breaking achievement included numerous special trains designed to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims traveling from across the country, with significant contributions from Odisha.
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) played a vital role in facilitating the journey of pilgrims by operating 60 special trains from 25 key cities across Odisha. These trains provided seamless connectivity for devotees traveling to the holy city of Prayagraj to bathe at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers—one of the most sacred rituals of the Maha Kumbh.
In addition to regular train services, the railway administration ensured that pilgrims from every corner of Odisha could board trains from nearby localities and important stations. Cities such as Puri, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khurda Road, Brahmapur, Balugaon, Jajpur Keonjhar Road, Jakhapura, Bhadrak, Baleswar, Kendujhargarh, Dhenkanal, Sambalpur, Rayagada, and many more were connected to Prayagraj through dedicated special trains.
To accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, Indian Railways made additional arrangements, including extra rakes stationed near Prayagraj that could be deployed as needed. Special measures were implemented after the Maha Shivaratri Snan, one of the most significant bathing dates of the Kumbh, ensuring smooth travel for millions of devotees.
The operation of more than 15,000 trains, including special services, was a testament to the tireless efforts of Indian Railways, with Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw closely monitoring operations. The Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, Shri Satish Kumar, was also actively involved in overseeing the execution of these operations. Railway teams worked diligently to strengthen arrangements and ensure comfort and security for passengers.
The railways also focused on enhancing the passenger experience by offering easy ticketing options, ensuring robust security measures, and providing shelter for pilgrims during their journey. These efforts were aimed at ensuring the utmost care and convenience for travelers, particularly during peak pilgrimage days like Maha Shivaratri.
This historic operation of 60 special trains, along with regular services, reflected Indian Railways’ unwavering commitment to providing safe, efficient, and seamless travel for millions of pilgrims heading to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025.
As the Maha Kumbh concluded, Indian Railways continued monitoring and adapting its services to meet the needs of pilgrims, ensuring that the journey to the sacred confluence remained smooth, comfortable and memorable for all devotees.
