Key Points
- Mahakumbh After 144 Years: Prayagraj gears up for a historic Mahakumbh, drawing global enthusiasm.
- Electric Buses Deployed: 40 new electric buses to enhance transport during the Mahakumbh; later repurposed for intercity routes.
- Shuttle Service Expansion: CM Yogi Adityanath directs the launch of 550 shuttle buses for the event, including 200 electric buses.
- New Infrastructure: A bathing ghat in Arail and charging stations for electric buses are being developed on a priority basis.
- Intercity Plans: Post-Mahakumbh, electric buses will connect Prayagraj to major cities like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Lucknow.
Prayagraj: With the Mahakumbh 2025 approaching, Prayagraj is set to witness an unprecedented influx of devotees from across the globe. This once-in-144-years event has prompted the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government to prepare extensively, ensuring seamless transportation and facilities for the pilgrims.
Boost in Transport Facilities
To ease transportation, the state has acquired 40 new electric buses, which will initially operate within Prayagraj during the Mahakumbh. These eco-friendly buses will be managed by the Transport Corporation and will operate at full capacity by Mauni Amavasya – a peak bathing day during the Mahakumbh.
Post-event, the buses will transition to intercity routes, connecting Prayagraj to nearby districts, including Chitrakoot, Banda, Vindhyachal, Mirzapur, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Lucknow. A new charging station at Prayag Depot Workshop in Rajapur is under construction to support the initiative.
Shuttle Service for Pilgrims
To further accommodate the anticipated rush, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed the deployment of 550 shuttle buses. This includes 350 ordinary buses from the Transport Corporation and 200 electric buses under the urban transport service. Charging stations at three locations are nearing completion to ensure uninterrupted service.
Enhanced Infrastructure Development
Recognizing the significance of the Mahakumbh, the government is also expediting the construction of a new bathing ghat in the Arail area, expected to be ready within three days. This addition will provide pilgrims with a more comfortable and accessible spiritual experience.
Electric Buses for Intercity Connectivity
Currently, 50 electric buses operate within Prayagraj’s municipal limits. For the first time, electric buses will expand beyond the city, connecting seven major cities in Uttar Pradesh. Of the 40 new buses, 24 have already been allocated to the Prayagraj region, marking a milestone in sustainable transportation for the state.
Mahakumbh 2025: A Historic Event Backed by Modern Amenities
The Prayagraj Mahakumbh, renowned for its cultural and spiritual significance, is poised to blend tradition with modernity. The introduction of electric buses and enhanced infrastructure underlines the government’s commitment to sustainability and the comfort of millions of devotees.