Prayagraj Sangam Railway Station Closed Till Feb 28 for Mahakumbh Crowd Management

Are you planning to attend Maha Kumbh Mela? Here is a crucial news that you must know before finalising your travel plans. In a move aimed at enhancing crowd management and ensuring public safety, the Indian Railways has announced the temporary closure of Prayagraj Sangam railway station from February 17 to February 28.

This decision comes in light of the recent stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on February 15, which resulted in chaos and multiple injuries due to overcrowding. With the Mahakumbh festival drawing massive crowds, authorities have taken a proactive approach to prevent similar incidents in Prayagraj.

Why Prayagraj Sangam railway station getting closed until February 28?

The closure was requested by the Prayagraj district administration to prevent overcrowding in the city and at the railway station, particularly near the Mahakumbh Nagar area. However, train services will continue at the city's eight other railway stations: Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Chheoki, Naini, Subedarganj, Prayag, Phaphamau, Jhunsi, and Prayagraj Rambagh.

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Enhanced Crowd Control Measures

Authorities have implemented additional crowd control measures, including stopping large groups of passengers at designated areas before allowing them to proceed toward railway stations. Over the weekend, travelers were temporarily held at a large park near Prayagraj Sangam station and released in small batches to prevent congestion.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Northern Railway (Lucknow Division), Kuldeep Tiwari, confirmed the closure in an official statement. "All concerned are informed that as per the order of the Prayagraj district administration, Prayagraj Sangam station of Northern Railway, Lucknow Division, will remain closed for passenger traffic from February 17 to February 28 midnight," he stated.

Special Trains to Manage Rush

To accommodate the growing number of pilgrims and travelers, the Indian Railways is operating special trains to and from Prayagraj. These additional trains aim to ease the transportation burden and ensure devotees can reach their destinations smoothly.

The tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station served as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by large gatherings at transit hubs. The Prayagraj administration, learning from the incident, has intensified its crowd management strategies to avert any potential risks during Mahakumbh.

Historically, Prayagraj Sangam railway station has been closed only on specific bathing festival days during the Mahakumbh. However, this year’s full closure until the end of February reflects the scale of the event and the authorities’ proactive approach to preventing untoward incidents.

Also read: Ultimate Guide to Maha Kumbh Mela - 2025

Mahakumbh 2025 Preparations Underway

The ongoing Mahakumbh festivities, which are set to culminate in 2025, are witnessing an unprecedented turnout of pilgrims and tourists from across the country and abroad. The administration has intensified security, transport, and accommodation arrangements to cater to the influx of visitors.

Travelers planning to visit Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh are advised to check train schedules in advance and use alternative railway stations. Authorities have urged passengers to follow official guidelines and cooperate with crowd control measures to ensure a safe and seamless travel experience.