No Free Train Travel During Mahakumbh: Ministry of Railways

New Delhi: The Ministry of Railways has dismissed reports claiming that devotees traveling to the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, in January next year will be allowed free train travel. The ministry clarified that there is no provision for free travel during the Mahakumbh or on any other occasion.

In a statement issued to counter misleading reports, the ministry said it had come to its attention that some media outlets were broadcasting claims about free train travel for passengers during the Mahakumbh.

The Ministry of Railways categorically denied these reports, stating, “Indian Railways strongly refutes these claims as they are entirely baseless and misleading.”

The ministry further reminded passengers that traveling without a valid ticket is strictly prohibited under the rules and regulations of Indian Railways and constitutes a punishable offense. “There is no provision for free travel during the Mahakumbh or any other event,” the statement reiterated.

The statement also emphasized that Indian Railways is committed to ensuring seamless travel for passengers during the Mahakumbh. Adequate arrangements, including the establishment of special holding areas, additional ticket counters, and other necessary facilities, are being made to manage the anticipated influx of passengers.

It is noteworthy that the Mahakumbh will begin on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan (holy bath) and conclude on February 26, 2025, on the occasion of Mahashivratri.