Patna: The ongoing rush to participate in the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj has led to a surge in train traffic, straining services across Bihar. As the festival nears its conclusion on February 26, the flow of devotees has escalated, causing significant disruptions to train schedules.
Over a dozen pairs of trains have been delayed by several hours, with some facing extraordinary setbacks. For example, the Sikkim Mahananda Express (15483) was delayed by 21 hours, while the Patna-Prayagraj Special Train (03219) experienced an 18-hour delay on Sunday.
Other trains, such as the Asansol-Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Superfast Express (12361), Bagmati Superfast Express (12578), and Himgiri Express (12331), among others, have also been delayed by hours, with some services being cancelled altogether, including the Vikramshila Express (12368) and Upasana Express (12328).
The situation has also led to chaotic train scenes, with overcrowding becoming a serious issue. Passengers are resorting to desperate measures to board trains, some climbing through emergency windows after being unable to enter through the gates. At Patna Junction, passengers have been observed breaking glass windows in a bid to enter already overcrowded carriages, while others travel in the washrooms due to a lack of space.
Upon arrival at Patna Junction, difficulties also arise for devotees trying to disembark, as the sheer number of passengers boarding trains makes it almost impossible for others to exit. The Hatia-Islampur Express, arriving at the station around 6:30 a.m., was the site of a frantic rush as passengers scrambled to board, obstructing those trying to get off. In the absence of security personnel on the platform, the situation became even more chaotic, with people pushing and shoving to move through the crowds.
