As the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj continues to attract millions of devotees, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that over 530 million devotees have taken a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam so far, with the process continuing for the next nine days.
CM Yogi Adityanath expressed, “This moment is especially significant as the Mahakumbh has become the world’s largest spiritual and cultural event. To date, 53 crore devotees have bathed in the Triveni Sangam, and this sacred tradition will continue for the next nine days.”
He highlighted the event’s global significance and its potential to showcase India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, as well as the country’s growing prominence. The Chief Minister also acknowledged the role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in reinstating the respect and faith of the people, referencing the long-awaited opening of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. “The 500-year wait is over, and now we can offer prayers in Ayodhya. In 2016-17, before the BJP government, only 2.35 lakh devotees visited Ayodhya. By 2024, this number has surged to over 14-15 crore, demonstrating the impact of the people’s devotion,” he said.
Devotees continued to flock to the Mahakumbh on its 36th day, with over 52 crore people having participated in the holy dip at what is considered the world’s largest human gathering. Prayagraj Railway Station witnessed an overwhelming influx of pilgrims, prompting authorities to remain vigilant in crowd management.
The Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), G.P. Singh, visited Prayagraj on Sunday to review security measures. He praised the collaboration between Uttar Pradesh Police, CRPF, and other involved agencies, calling it a “fine synergy.” The CRPF’s official social media account noted, “DG GP Singh assessed the security arrangements for Mahakumbh, guiding CRPF officials on maintaining vigilance while ensuring smooth public assistance. He commended the teamwork and efforts in ensuring safety.”
To accommodate the increased passenger traffic during the Mahakumbh Mela, Northern Railway introduced four special trains. These services are designed to ease the rush and provide smoother travel for devotees:
- Train No. 04420: New Delhi to Prayagraj Jn (19:00 hrs)
- Train No. 04422: New Delhi to Prayagraj Jn (21:00 hrs)
- Train No. 04424: Anand Vihar Terminal to Prayagraj Jn (20:00 hrs)
- Train No. 04418: New Delhi to Darbhanga Jn (15:00 hrs)
These trains aim to manage the surge in travelers during the Mela and ensure convenience for pilgrims.
Following the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday, which claimed 18 lives and left many injured, Central Railway has also announced additional special trains to support the flow of pilgrims to Prayagraj.
