Prayagraj: A joint committee will be constituted to carry out a detailed gap analysis of railway infrastructure in Prayagraj as a part of the preparations for Kumbh-2031. The decision was taken during a high-level coordination meeting of railway and civil administration officials held recently to discuss smooth travel arrangements during the religious gathering.The meeting focused on identifying long-term, medium-term, and short-term development work required to strengthen transportation infrastructure and passenger facilities across the city. Officials deliberated on the comprehensive development of major railway stations in the region so that they can handle the heavy passenger traffic during the Kumbh.Public relations office (PRO) of the Prayagraj Division of North Central Railway (NCR), Amit Kumar Singh, said the proposed gap analysis will assess existing infrastructure and passenger amenities at key stations, including Prayagraj Junction, Subedarganj, Naini, Chheoki, Jhunsi, and Phaphamau. Based on these findings, plans will be prepared to upgrade these stations with improved passenger facilities. Discussions were held on expanding platforms, constructing additional foot overbridges, strengthening entry and exit points, and improving circulating areas to manage the large flow of passengers efficiently.Connectivity between railway stations and the mela area was another major focus of the meeting. Officials highlighted the need to create seamless transport links to ensure that pilgrims can reach the mela grounds without difficulty. In this regard, the coordinated operation of buses, e-rickshaws, and other transport services was discussed. The possibility of developing a dedicated circular road corridor linking railway stations, bus stands, and the mela area was also examined to facilitate smooth movement and reduce congestion.The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern technologies for crowd management during Kumbh was also discussed. Advanced systems could help estimate passenger footfall, monitor crowd movement, and assist authorities in managing large gatherings more effectively. Officials also emphasised the need for an integrated communication system to guide passengers through announcements, signage, digital displays, and other information systems across transport hubs.Several major infrastructure proposals were also taken up during the meeting. These included the construction of a new railway bridge over the Yamuna near Naini, the development of new road overbridges and underpasses near Iradatganj and Pani Ki Tanki, the widening and beautification of approach roads connecting Subedarganj railway station to GT Road, the widening of Nawab Yusuf Road on the Civil Lines side, and the construction of a roundabout near the Railway Hospital crossing.It was also decided that both external and internal traffic management plans for Kumbh will be finalised at least one year before the event. The meeting was chaired by divisional railway manager Rajnish Agarwal. District magistrate Manish Kumar Verma, vice chairman, Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA), Rishiraj and Additional Divisional Railway Manager Deepak Kumar were among the senior officials present.
