Overcrowded Railway Stations Nationwide as Maha Kumbh Draws Near; Authorities Face Challenges with Devotee Surge
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Synopsis
As the Maha Kumbh Mela nears completion, Northern India's railway stations are inundated with devotees. Authorities are struggling with safety and crowd management, especially at major stations like New Delhi and Varanasi. Special trains are operational, but many travelers face overcrowded conditions. The situation remains critical as millions continue to arrive for the pilgrimage.
Key Takeaways
- Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj nearing conclusion.
- Significant influx of devotees causing overcrowding.
- Security measures heightened at New Delhi Railway Station.
- Additional police deployed to manage crowds.
- Concerns over safety and passenger comfort.
New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) As the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj approaches its finale, railway stations throughout Northern India are experiencing a remarkable surge in the number of devotees. This has led to extended queues, crowded platforms, and significant train congestion.
The situation has raised alarms regarding crowd control and safety, with numerous stations struggling to manage the influx of pilgrims.
The New Delhi Railway Station, which recently experienced a tragic stampede on Saturday, has intensified its security protocols.
Additional police forces have been deployed to oversee the circumstances.
With the Maha Kumbh nearing its conclusion, travelers from across the nation are making their way to the capital to reach Prayagraj, causing significant congestion.
DDU Junction, situated in Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, is also facing an enormous throng of pilgrims journeying to Prayagraj.
The situation has been worsened by the Sunday rush, with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), and railway personnel working tirelessly to manage the large volume of passengers. Despite special trains being arranged for the Maha Kumbh, many travelers have been unable to board due to the overcrowded conditions.
Anand Vihar Railway Station in Delhi saw a similar scenario this morning, with a vast crowd of passengers complicating efforts by authorities to maintain order.
In Varanasi, another significant stop for pilgrims, the Varanasi Cantt Station is facing a heavy influx of passengers following the Maha Kumbh Snan. Authorities have increased their initiatives to control the crowd, but the atmosphere remains tense as more devotees continue to arrive in the city.
Prayagraj has also become a central focus, with local law enforcement working diligently to manage the surge of visitors. However, worries about overcrowding and passenger safety continue to loom as trains to the city are either fully booked or packed beyond capacity.
Meanwhile, reports of inadequate conditions have emerged from Kanpur Central Railway Station, where overcrowded trains bound for Sangam have raised concerns. Passengers have been compelled to sit in bathrooms or dangle from windows, leading to dissatisfaction and complaints regarding the lack of adequate facilities.
With the Maha Kumbh festival nearing its end, authorities are facing mounting pressure to ensure the safety and seamless travel of millions of devotees flocking to prominent pilgrimage sites. The situation demands ongoing vigilance as railway stations across Northern India brace for an even greater influx of passengers in the days ahead.
