Plans for Simhastha Kumbh Mela Crowd Management by March 2027

Original: Simhastha Kumbh Mela: All works to be completed by Mar 2027, says CR; focus on crowd management

Hindustan Times•Apr 2, 20262 min

In a Nutshell

The Central Railway is preparing a comprehensive crowd management plan for the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela, ensuring all related works are completed by March 31, 2027. This major religious event, expected to attract up to 12.5 crore devotees, will commence on October 31, 2026.

Key Points

01Central Railway's crowd management plan for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela includes key railway stations.
02All works related to the event are set to be completed by March 31, 2027.
03The event is expected to attract significantly more attendees than the 2015 edition.
04A total of ₹1370 crore has been sanctioned for 88 works related to the event.
05Key events include 'Dhwajarohan' on October 31, 2026, and multiple 'Amrut Snan' ceremonies in August and September 2027.

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Full Summary

The Central Railway is developing a detailed crowd management plan for the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela, set to begin on October 31, 2026. Acting General Manager Prateek Goswami announced that all preparations, including the establishment of holding areas at key railway stations, will be completed by March 31, 2027. Stations such as Deolali, Lasalgaon, and Nashik Road are part of this initiative, which aims to manage the expected influx of devotees, projected to be four to five times the 2.5 crore attendees from the 2015 event. A budget of ₹1370 crore has been allocated for 88 works to ensure smooth operations, with train services expected to commence in June 2027. Key events during the Kumbh Mela include 'Dhwajarohan' and several 'Amrut Snan' ceremonies, which are significant rituals for participants.

Key Figures

₹1370 crore

Total budget sanctioned for the event preparations

4-5 times

Expected increase in attendees compared to the 2015 Kumbh Mela

2.5 crore

Number of attendees at the 2015 Simhastha Kumbh Mela

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Why It Matters

The extensive preparations for the Kumbh Mela will enhance infrastructure and crowd management, benefiting local businesses and transportation services.

Who is affected

local residents, businesses, and attendees of the Kumbh Mela

What to know

Local businesses should prepare for increased foot traffic and potential sales opportunities during the event.

FAQ

The Simhastha Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu pilgrimage that occurs every 12 years, attracting millions of devotees.

The next Simhastha Kumbh Mela will commence on October 31, 2026.

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