No trains, buses, flights! Travel hurdles for Odisha pilgrims heading to Maha Kumbh Mela

Pilgrims from Odisha aiming to attend the ‘Maha Kumbh Mela 2025’ in Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh are facing considerable travel obstacles, as train tickets are already sold out, sources said on Friday.

Despite the operation of seven special trains catering to this route, the overwhelming demand has prompted devotees to seek alternative transportation, such as Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) buses and flights from Bhubaneswar.

Also Read: Four more buses to run between Odisha, Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh Mela

However, the soaring costs of air travel have added to the frustrations of those wishing to participate in the spiritual congregation.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, which includes a rare bathing ritual, is drawing significant interest. With rail tickets unavailable, and OSRTC bus services reaching capacity, devotees like Suresh Rath from Sailashree Vihar locality of Bhubaneswar are left in a state of concern over their travel plans. “I have been unsuccessful in securing a train ticket,” he lamented.

Some have managed to secure limited seats after lengthy waits at ticket counters. Parsuram Rout, hailing from Balasore, managed to reserve places for only four out of eight intended passengers on the Rajdhani Express after spending three strenuous days queuing.

“Several others were standing in the queue behind me, who returned home empty-handed. Provision for more number of buses and trains should be made by the State government to accommodate the rising demand,” Parsuram said to OTV.

An anticipated 10 crore attendees, including those from Odisha, are expected to reach the Mela, and many are hoping for more transportation options to facilitate their journey.

While seven special trains, eight OSRTC Volvo buses, and four regular flights are scheduled, these have quickly reached full booking, affecting the plans of many potential travellers amidst lengthy waiting lists.

Allegedly, with airfares having risen by 21%-50% from typical rates, there is increased pressure for more travel options. Both the East Coast Railway (ECoR) and OSRTC are considering increasing frequencies in response to the growing pressure.

Bhubaneswar airport (BPIA) authorities have mentioned the possibility of additional flights if coordinated with the State's government’s requests.

Must Read: Maha Kumbh Mela: Nearly 1 Lakh pilgrims from Odisha to be facilitated by East Coast Railway

Deputy CM Pravati Parida noted ongoing discussions between the Tourism Department and railway authorities, recognising the need for more trains once clearances are received.

Notably, the Maha Kumbh Mela, set against the backdrop of Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam, has just concluded two significant bathing days, with key events scheduled on January 29 and February 3.

Reported By: Prakash Mohanty, Rashmiranjan Das