Railways rejects reports of free train travel during Maha Kumbh Mela as 'baseless and misleading'

The Ministry of Railways on Wednesday dismissed media reports claiming that passengers will be allowed to travel free of cost during the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela as “entirely baseless and misleading”.

The Railways clarified that travelling without a valid ticket is strictly prohibited under its rules and constitutes a punishable offence.

“There are no provisions for free travel during Maha Kumbh Mela or any other occasion,” the statement added.

The Railways said it is committed to ensuring smooth travel for passengers during the Maha Kumbh Mela and has made elaborate arrangements to manage the expected rush. These include setting up special holding areas, additional ticket counters, and other necessary facilities at key stations.

Maha Kumbh Mela - Important dates, significance

The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is set to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025, drawing millions of devotees from across the country and abroad. The Maha Kumbh Mela is known for its grand processions, sacred bathing rituals like the ‘Shahi Snaan,’ and other spiritual ceremonies.

Celebrated four times over 12 years at four rotating locations—Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj—the Maha Kumbh Mela is determined by specific astrological alignments of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter. Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is particularly significant as it takes place at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati rivers.

This year’s event is expected to witness record participation, especially on key dates such as Paush Purnima (January 13), Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12) and Mahashivratri (February 26).