Maha Kumbh Rush: Railways on High Alert, Tightens Security

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• Railways on high alert ahead of Maha Kumbh’s last Amrit Snan.
• Massive crowd expected in Prayagraj on Mahashivratri.
• Security tightened at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Junction.
• Holding areas have been set up outside stations.
• Additional security forces have been deployed.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

As the Maha Kumbh nears its final phase, devotees continue to arrive in large numbers via road and rail to take a holy dip at Sangam in Prayagraj. The last Amrit Snan will take place on February 26, on the occasion of Mahashivratri. A massive crowd is expected in Prayagraj, and the Railways have ramped up their preparedness and are on high alert to manage the Maha Kumbh Rush.

Security Arrangements

Security has been strengthened at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Junction in Uttar Pradesh, and holding areas have been set up outside stations to manage the expected rush. The railway station is a key gateway for Bihar, Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and the northeastern states.

Unauthorized Entry Restricted

Additionally, unauthorized entry at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Junction has been restricted, with security personnel checking tickets at station entry points.

Railways Statement

Speaking on the preparations, North Central Railway CPRO Shashikant Tripathi said that the Railways has been on high alert since the beginning of the Maha Kumbh. He assured that all necessary measures are in place to handle the weekend crowd.

Crowd Management

“If congestion increases, railway stations will implement a single-entry and exit system, allowing passengers to enter from one side and exit from another,” he said. The official added that colour-coded holding areas will be designated for passengers traveling in different directions to manage the crowd efficiently.

Additional Measures

“If required, additional passengers will be accommodated in the holding area at Khusro Bagh until their train arrives. This approach was successfully implemented during previous Amrit Snan days. Railway remains on high alert for Mahashivratri and is committed to ensuring smooth travel for passengers,” Tripathi said.

Deployment of Security Forces

Other than the measures mentioned above, Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), local police, and RPF’s commando unit “CORAS” have also been deployed to control the crowd. Railway officials, including DRM Rajesh Gupta, Senior DCM Sudhanshu Kumar, Senior DOM Muhammad Iqbal, and RPF Commandant Jethin B Raj, are closely monitoring the situation to ensure smooth operations.

Security at Other Stations

East Central Railway CPRO Saraswati Chandra said that strict surveillance is in place at all key stations, with enhanced security arrangements, including the deployment of heavy police force. CCTV monitoring is also being utilized to maintain order and safety.

Significance of Mahashivratri

Mahashivratri marks the culmination of the once-in-a-12-year event, drawing devotees from all corners of the country.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Railways on high alert before Maha Kumbh’s final Snan.
• Big crowd expected in Prayagraj for Mahashivratri.
• Security tightened at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Junction.
• Holding areas are created outside railway station.
• Extra Security forces have been deployed.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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