• Source:JND
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The Ministry of Railways is set to operate a large number of special trains for the upcoming Kumbh Mela. As many as 992 special trains will be plying during the mega event, which is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj in January next year, Jagran.com reported citing a senior railway official.

Besides running special trains, the ministry has earmarked Rs 933 crore for the construction of various infrastructure and facilities for passengers. To ensure seamless movement of trains, track doubling work is also being accelerated at a cost of Rs 3,700 crore in the Prayagraj division and nearby areas.

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Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with his junior ministers-- Ravneet Singh Bittu and V Somanna-- held meetings on Saturday to review the arrangements for handling the massive influx of devotees expected during the Kumbh Mela, which will commence on January 12.

Over 30 to 50 crore devotees are likely to attend the event. The Railways will run special trains in addition to the 6,580 regular trains connecting various cities to Prayagraj. Based on past experiences, the number of special trains have been increased by 42 per cent, bringing the total to 992, the official noted.

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Meanwhile, the Northeast Frontier Railway will operate 26 special trains over the next two months to alleviate festival crowding. These 13 pairs of trains will run from October 1 to November 30, providing additional services during Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja festivals.