Indian Railways has completed a key infrastructure project connecting Prayagraj and Varanasi, boosting connectivity between two important centres of Sanatan culture, with the track doubling project aimed at enhancing transportation for Maha Kumbh 2025 now in its final stages and the construction of the crucial Ganga Rail Bridge complete
The upgraded rail track will enable train operations at speeds of 100 to 130 km/h, providing faster and more efficient travel between Prayagraj and Varanasi.
These operations are likely to begin in time for the Maha Kumbh, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate the project during his visit on 13 December.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav will inspect the project on 8 December, before the formal inauguration.
The double-engine government at the Center and the state has worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this transformative project.
With over 40 crore devotees expected to visit Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh, Indian Railways has prioritized improving infrastructure to accommodate the large influx of visitors.
The doubling of the Prayagraj-Varanasi rail line and the completion of the Ganga Rail Bridge are crucial steps in enhancing connectivity for the event.
The upgraded rail track will facilitate high-speed trains such as the Vande Bharat Express, reducing travel time between the two cities to just one to one-and-a-quarter hours.
This will provide a smooth and swift journey for devotees and help manage the massive footfall during the religious gathering.
The Ganga Rail Bridge, which connects Daraganj in Prayagraj to Jhunsi, replaces the old Izat Bridge and is a major milestone in the project.
The doubling of the rail track from CMP Degree College rail over bridge in Prayagraj to Jhunsi, and further to Rambagh, ensures better integration of the region into the upgraded network.
New Infrastructure To Boost Train Operations On Key Routes
With approximately 200 trains passing through this route daily, the new infrastructure will streamline operations and improve travel times on key routes, including Delhi-Kolkata, Howrah-Prayagraj, Prayagraj-Gorakhpur, and Prayagraj-Patna.
Vinay Agarwal, General Manager of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), which executed the project, highlighted that the proposal for the Ganga Rail Bridge was initiated in 2003 but faced delays due to land acquisition issues and lack of political support.
However, with the strong backing of the double-engine government, the project gained momentum, and construction began in 2019.
Now completed, the new rail infrastructure will likely play a vital role in ensuring seamless travel for millions of pilgrims expected at the Maha Kumbh.
This project reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure for the Maha Kumbh 2025, ensuring a grand, safe, and smooth experience for the vast number of devotees.
Also Read: Prayagraj & Mahakumbh Nagar Prepare For PM Modi’s Visit With Grand Arrangements
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