In a significant move to ensure the safety of millions of pilgrims, the Government Railway Police (GRP) in Prayagraj has formulated a detailed and technologically advanced crowd management plan for the upcoming Magh Mela in 2026. The strategy, developed in collaboration with the district administration, aims to manage the massive influx of devotees and facilitate their safe journey to and from the holy event.
Multi-Pronged Strategy for Pilgrim Safety
The comprehensive plan incorporates several innovative measures. Senior Superintendent of Police (GRP) Prashant Verma stated that the primary objectives are to manage the enormous crowd, ensure safe access to trains and platforms, and prevent passengers, especially the elderly and those from rural areas, from getting lost at major stations like Prayagraj Junction.
Adequate police forces will be deployed in and around the railway station campus to maintain order. The GRP has also directed the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to conduct thorough screening of all luggage entering passenger shelters as a security precaution.
Colour-Coding and Dedicated Holding Areas
A key feature of the plan is the introduction of a Colour-Coding System. Pilgrims will be directed to shelters marked with specific colours—red, blue, yellow, or green—based on their destination, such as Lucknow or Gorakhpur. Each colour will correspond to a particular route or train, allowing passengers to proceed to their designated train without confusion.
To manage the heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic from the city, diversion plans will be implemented. At Prayagraj Junction, temporary dedicated holding areas will be used to regulate the flow of the crowd, preventing dangerous congestion on platforms.
Leveraging Technology for Surveillance and Control
The 2026 Magh Mela will see a strong emphasis on technology-driven monitoring. Authorities will deploy AI-powered cameras and drones for real-time crowd monitoring and quick response to any incidents. This surveillance will be coordinated round-the-clock from the Integrated Control and Command Center (ICCC).
Furthermore, to keep passengers informed, clear signage will be placed at all key points. Regular updates and directions will be provided to pilgrims every hour through microphone announcements at railway stations.
Plan Extends to Major Stations Across Region
The crowd management scheme is not limited to Prayagraj Junction alone. Separate, tailored plans are being implemented for all major stations in the region that will see high pilgrim traffic. These include Chheoki, Naini, Rambagh, Prayag, and Jhansi stations.
This holistic approach ensures that safety and efficient management are maintained throughout the pilgrims' rail journey, not just at the point of origin or departure. The GRP's proactive planning for Magh Mela 2026 highlights a shift towards integrated, smart, and visitor-friendly management of India's large-scale religious gatherings.
