As the Kumbh Mela approaches, scheduled to take place in Haridwar next year, the Mela administration is undertaking comprehensive preparations to ensure a smooth, safe, and convenient experience for the influx of devotees anticipated from across the nation. With a significant number of pilgrims expected to travel by train during the event, efforts have been amplified to bolster facilities and necessary arrangements at Haridwar and adjacent railway stations.

In this context, Mela Officer Sonika conducted a thorough inspection of the Haridwar Railway Station on February 20, accompanied by officials from both the Mela administration and the Railways. This visit aimed to evaluate the proposed arrangements made by the Railways in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela. Sonika noted that the State Government is dedicated to executing the upcoming Kumbh Mela with diligence and grandeur, and an effective action plan has been established. Furthermore, she mentioned that most of the permanent works related to the event have received the State Government’s approval.

Haridwar Railway Station a primary entry point for devotees

During her inspection, Sonika highlighted the importance of Haridwar Railway Station as a primary entry point for devotees, emphasizing that all arrangements must be organized, secure, and effective. She provided necessary directives concerning accommodations for pilgrims, designated entry and exit pathways, waiting areas, and essential facilities. Emphasizing proactive measures, Sonika stated that ongoing assessments of crowd control, security management, and traffic operations are vital to achieving seamless execution, advocating for robust inter-departmental coordination to finalize logistical arrangements.

Additionally, the Mela Officer underscored the importance of maintaining train schedules during the Kumbh period and ensuring the operation of special trains as needed. She instructed that crowd management strategies at platforms and station environments be prioritized, along with adequate lighting, clean drinking water, continuous sanitation of restrooms, and proper amenities in waiting areas. Organized management of arrival and departure routes, sufficient holding spaces, increased ticket counters as necessary, efficient operation of help desks, and a strengthened public announcement system were among her additional directives.

Special assistance counters are to be established for individuals with disabilities, senior citizens, and women passengers. On the security front, the discussions included coordination with the Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF), the deployment of additional security personnel, continuous surveillance using CCTV, and ensuring the availability of emergency medical facilities. Sonika also emphasized the need to enhance the capabilities of nearby railway stations including Motichur, Jwalapur, and Raiwala, stating that communication with senior railway officials will be established to facilitate this.

Holding area accommodating up to 10,000 passengers is being planned

During the inspection, Haridwar Railway Station Superintendent Dinesh Kumar disclosed that several strengthening measures are already in progress in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela. A holding area accommodating up to 10,000 passengers is being planned to efficiently manage crowd flow at Haridwar Railway Station. The Mela Officer and the Additional Mela Officer also visited the Laljiwala area, Bhimgoda Barrage, and the Rodi Belwala-Khadda parking site to assess preparations, instructing that all arrangements pertaining to passenger facilities and sanitation in these locations be finalized within the designated timeframe.

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