Prayagraj: To manage the anticipated massive influx of passengers for the Mahakumbh Mela in 2025, Indian Railways has introduced a QR-based ticket booking system in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative aims to provide a seamless digital experience for travelers, allowing them to easily purchase tickets by scanning QR codes displayed on posters or railway personnel uniforms in the Mahakumbh Mela area.
Passengers can download the Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) app from the Google Play Store to scan the QR codes. The app facilitates ticket booking for short-distance trips (50-100 km) and long-distance travel (over 200 km). For long-distance journeys, passengers can book tickets up to 15 days in advance.
The Mahakumbh Mela, scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 26, will see millions of visitors. To manage this, Indian Railways has planned nearly 13,000 train services, including 560 ring rail route services and 3,000 special trains. These services will improve connectivity between major pilgrimage cities like Ayodhya, Varanasi, Jaunpur, and Chitrakoot.
In preparation for the event, Prayagraj railway stations are being renovated as part of the “Paint My City” campaign. Stations such as Prayagraj Junction, Phaphamau, and Prayag Junction have been adorned with vibrant paintings reflecting Hindu mythology, devotion, and customs, providing a culturally enriching experience for visitors.
Additionally, comprehensive traffic management plans have been developed by local authorities to ensure smooth road transport leading to Prayagraj from key locations like Jaunpur, Varanasi, Mirzapur, Rewa/Banda, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Pratapgarh, ensuring a hassle-free journey for both pilgrims and tourists.
