Prayagraj: The recently concluded Magh Mela in the Sangam city set a new benchmark for railway management, with Indian Railways operating a record number of special trains to handle the massive influx of pilgrims.According to official figures, over 22 crore devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam during the fair. In response to the unprecedented rush, Indian Railways operated over 1,000 special trains for the first time during the Magh Mela period.Between Jan 2 and Feb 15, a total of 1,067 special trains ran. Previously, the number of special trains during the Magh Mela did not cross 400. This year, through coordinated efforts of the North Central Railway (NCR), Northern Railway (NR), and North Eastern Railway (NER), pilgrims experienced smoother and more convenient travel.In total, 9,135 trains, including both regular and special services, operated during the Mela period. This included 8,068 routine trains and 1,067 special trains.On peak bathing days, additional services were deployed to manage the heavy passenger load. 60 special trains operated on Mauni Amavasya (Jan 18), 45 on Basant Panchami, 41 on Makar Sankranti, 40 on Maghi Purnima, and 38 on Paush Purnima.Chief public relations officer of NCR, Shashikant Tripathi, said that passenger convenience remained the top priority. For the first time, a Ring Rail service was introduced during the Magh Mela on the lines of arrangements made during the Maha Kumbh. The Ring Rail service will continue for a few more days.Additionally, stoppages of 7 other pairs of trains at Prayagraj Junction will also be restored from Feb 18, confirmed Amit Kumar Singh, PRO, Prayagraj Division.
