- Passengers resort to stone-pelting as trains remain overcrowded
Chronicle Reporter, Chhatarpur
The rush of devotees heading to the Maha Kumbh continues to overwhelm the railway system. Despite the Indian Railways running special trains to accommodate the growing number of passengers traveling to Prayagraj, the demand is still far greater than what can be provided. All trains to Prayagraj are running full, and there is barely any space for passengers to sit or even board at stations.
Stone-Pelting Erupts Over Overcrowding
On the night of Monday and Tuesday, the Prayagraj Express arrived at Harpalpur and Chhatarpur railway stations, already packed to capacity. In an attempt to prevent any further passengers from boarding, passengers inside the train locked the doors. Frustrated by the lack of space, a large crowd at the station resorted to stone-pelting, shattering the train’s windows in protest.
Disruptions at Stations as Crowds Surge
The situation is becoming increasingly chaotic at railway stations. The railway department began operating special trains from Khajuraho to Prayagraj, but even these trains are packed to the brim. The growing number of devotees is putting additional pressure on the already strained railway infrastructure, and stations are beginning to resemble scenes of disorder.
Possibility of More Trains Being Deployed
Railway officials are aware of the mounting chaos at stations like Chhatarpur and Harpalpur. Public Relations Officer Manoj Singh confirmed that special trains are running, but the number of passengers keeps increasing. Reports of overcrowding and passengers facing difficulties have been received from these stations, and there is a possibility of adding even more special trains to address the situation.
As the Maha Kumbh draws more devotees, the challenge of managing their transportation remains a daunting task for the railways.