Maha Kumbh 2025: Effortless Train Ticket Booking with QR Code Scanning at Prayagraj Station
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, set to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, promises to be a monumental gathering, drawing an estimated 40 crore devotees from across the globe. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience for visitors, North Central Railway has introduced an innovative digital solution to streamline train ticket bookings. For the first time ever, passengers will be able to book unreserved train tickets by simply scanning QR codes on the jackets of railway staff at Prayagraj Junction. This new feature will undoubtedly revolutionize the way devotees travel to one of the world’s largest spiritual events.
A Digital Revolution in Ticketing
In a move aimed at enhancing convenience, North Central Railway has implemented a QR code-based system that will allow passengers to book tickets without waiting in long queues. This initiative, hailed as a “unique arrangement,” allows devotees to scan the QR codes printed on the green jackets worn by railway staff stationed at Prayagraj Junction. By scanning the code with their mobile phones, passengers will be directed to the Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) app, where they can instantly book unreserved train tickets for their journey.
“This digital solution will save time, reduce crowds, and provide a smoother ticketing experience for the lakhs of devotees attending the Maha Kumbh,” said Dileep Kumar, Executive Director of the Railway Board’s Information and Publicity Department, as reported by The New Indian Express.
How Does the QR Code System Work?
To take advantage of this new system, passengers will need to have a smartphone with internet access. The QR codes will be displayed prominently on the jackets worn by Railway commercial department staff members throughout the Prayagraj station. Upon scanning the code, users will be prompted to download the UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System) app, available for both Android and iOS devices.
Once the app is downloaded, passengers can use it to purchase unreserved tickets for their desired destination without the need to physically stand in line at ticket counters. The UTS app is designed to simplify the ticketing process, providing a faster and more efficient way for devotees to secure their travel tickets, especially during the Maha Kumbh, when the station is expected to witness a massive influx of visitors.
Why This System Is a Game-Changer
The introduction of this QR code-based ticketing system is particularly significant given the expected scale of the Maha Kumbh 2025. With over 40 crore visitors anticipated, the volume of people traveling to Prayagraj will be overwhelming. By embracing digital technology, North Central Railway aims to minimize the crowding at traditional ticket counters and provide a more efficient way for people to secure tickets.
The new system will also help alleviate some of the pressure on the existing infrastructure. Traditionally, long queues at ticket counters have been a major issue during large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh. However, by making ticket booking easier and more accessible through smartphones, the Railways hopes to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.
Preparing for Record Crowds: Special Trains and Upgraded Infrastructure
In anticipation of the massive crowds expected during the festival, Indian Railways has announced plans to run 3,124 special trains from January 10 to February 28, alongside 10,100 regular trains. These trains will help accommodate the huge number of visitors traveling to and from Prayagraj. In addition, the railway station’s capacity will be expanded to handle up to 1.02 million passengers daily.
To further facilitate easy access, 278 additional ticket counters will be set up at Prayagraj station. This will help ensure that both digital and in-person ticketing options are available for the convenience of all passengers. These measures reflect the Indian Railways’ commitment to ensuring that the Maha Kumbh 2025 is a smooth and efficient experience for all devotees.
The Significance of Maha Kumbh 2025
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a celebration of spiritual significance, is one of the largest gatherings in the world. Held every 12 years in rotation at four locations across India, it draws millions of pilgrims and tourists who come to bathe in the holy rivers and participate in religious rituals. The event not only serves as a major spiritual gathering but also as an important cultural and tourism event, showcasing India’s rich traditions and heritage.
The 2025 edition of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is expected to be one of the most well-attended festivals in history, making the logistical coordination around transportation, crowd management, and digital services crucial for its success.
What This Means for Devotees
For devotees, this new QR code-based ticketing system means greater convenience, reduced waiting times, and a more comfortable travel experience. With easy access to tickets via smartphones, pilgrims can focus more on their spiritual journey rather than the complexities of travel logistics. The digital transformation promises to enhance not only the efficiency of the transport system but also the overall atmosphere of the Maha Kumbh, ensuring that the focus remains on faith and devotion.