Maha Kumbh Rush: Chaos Erupts at Bihar Railway Stations as Overcrowding Worsens

Patna: With the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage underway in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, railway stations in Bihar continue to witness overwhelming crowds. Trains heading towards the holy city remain packed, leaving passengers struggling for space and prompting chaotic scenes at multiple stations.

One such incident unfolded at Salona station on the Khagaria-Samastipur railway section, where frustrated passengers resorted to breaking a train door after being unable to board. The incident occurred on train number 14603 Saharsa-Amritsar Jansadharan Express, which was already overcrowded. As the train stopped at Salona, over 300 passengers waiting at the station pleaded for the doors to be opened, but those inside refused, fearing further congestion.

With no other option, some passengers smashed the train’s glass windows using bricks and entered through the broken panes. Reports suggest that in the chaos, the station also witnessed vandalism, with around 200 passengers eventually cancelling their tickets and demanding refunds at the counter.

Authorities fail to manage the situation

Mohammad Shahid Akhtar of the Dainik Rail Yatri Sangh criticised the station authorities for their inaction. He stated that despite the overwhelming rush, station officials merely stood by as onlookers. The Yatri Sangh has been urging the Divisional Railway Manager of Samastipur to introduce a dedicated daily train from Salona station to accommodate the surge in passengers.

Similar scenes at Patna Junction

Overcrowding is not limited to Salona. Patna Junction has also been witnessing large gatherings of passengers eager to reach Prayagraj. Although the peak rush seen during Magh Purnima has slightly eased, trains remain packed, and the struggle to board continues.

On Friday, thousands of devotees tried to board regular trains heading to Prayagraj, leading to chaotic scenes at the station. As soon as trains such as Magadh Express, Brahmaputra Mail, Sampurnanand Kranti Express, Vibhuti Express, and Kumbh Special arrived, passengers rushed to secure a place, with even sleeper and AC coaches filled beyond capacity.