Railways heighten measures in Prayagraj as pilgrim rush swells

Railway authorities took multiple measures, including the operation of over 580 special trains, to combat the heavy rush of Maha Kumbh pilgrims at Prayagraj Junction in Uttar Pradesh over the last two days, officials said on Sunday.

- HT Correspondent [e-mail]

PRAYAGRAJ:

Authorities activated an "emergency plan" to prevent overcrowding at the station on Saturday morning following a massive influx of devotees. Under the emergency plan, direct entry to Prayagraj Junction was suspended, and passengers were diverted to Khusrobagh holding area, where they were allowed to enter the station in phases, officials said, adding that the plan remained in effect until 4 am on Sunday.

Security measures similar to those enforced during Mauni Amavasya (January 29) were put in place to prevent overcrowding. Passengers were not allowed to sit at the station, and the situation was closely monitored from the control room, they added.