Railway Ministry Calls Out Fake Reports Of 'Free Travel' For Mahakumbh

The Centre on Wednesday (18 December) refuted media reports claiming free rail travel for passengers during the upcoming Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj.

In a statement, the Ministry of Railways termed such reports as "entirely baseless and misleading".

"It has come to the attention of Indian Railways that certain media outlets are circulating reports claiming that passengers will be allowed to travel free of cost during the Maha Kumbh Mela. Indian Railways categorically denies these reports, as they are entirely baseless and misleading," the ministry said.

The ministry added that traveling without a valid ticket is strictly prohibited under the rules and regulations of Indian Railways and constitutes a punishable offence. 

"There are no provisions for free travel during Maha Kumbh Mela or any other occasion," the ministry added.

The ministry said that Indian Railways is committed to ensuring seamless travel for passengers during the Maha Kumbh Mela.

"Adequate arrangements are being made, including the establishment of special holding areas, additional ticket counters, and other necessary facilities to manage the anticipated influx of passengers," it said.

The grand religious event, which takes place every 12 years, is expected to draw millions of Hindu devotees, with key bathing days, such as "Shahi Snan" on 14 January 2025, and others on 29 January and 3 February 2025, projected to see large crowds.

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