Newssuper Report Tania Kundu Kolkata, 16 Jan 2026: Sealdah Division of Eastern Railways has successfully concluded the prestigious Gangasagar Mela, showcasing exemplary dedication and commitment to providing world-class services to millions of pilgrims to make it a grand success.
In view of the significant surge in the number of pilgrims, particularly those traveling towards Bihar, Sealdah Division has taken proactive measures to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for pilgrims.
Special trains to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims, total no of 352 trains i.e higher than ever are running from Sealdah to Namkhana and Kakdwip during mela days. Stringent measures were implemented to maintain punctuality and ensure the timely arrival of trains at their destinations.
To accommodate the high passenger volume on January 15 and 16, special arrangements have been implemented. Recognizing the sudden spike in Bihar-bound pilgrims on January 15, a special “Scratch Rake” train was promptly assembled and pressed into service. This emergency measure was taken to clear the extra rush and provide immediate relief to waiting passengers.
To enhance carrying capacity and seamless journey of pilgrims, two additional General Class (GS) coaches have been attached to three major Bihar bound Mail/Express trains on January 15 and 16. The strategic use of large holding areas proved highly effective in regulating passenger entry. Clear segregation of entry and exit gates successfully streamlined passenger flow, preventing bottlenecks in the circulating areas.
Division set up additional ticket counters to facilitate quick and easy ticket booking. A novel initiative was taken, that is M-UTS where booking clerks visited passengers directly to issue tickets, eliminating the need for long queues. This was particularly beneficial for elderly passengers and needy passengers also. Total no. of passengers during Gangasagar mela 2026 from 11.01.26 to 15.01.26 is approx. 10 lacs with the increase of nearly 25% from previous year.
Division has ensured that thousands of pilgrims reaching the Gangasagar Mela can travel at an extremely nominal cost. Despite the massive distance of over 100 km, maintained a fare of only Rs. 25, making the spiritual journey accessible to the humblest of devotees.
A dedicated security team with double strength from previous year was deployed to manage crowds effectively, facilitate orderly boarding and provide assistance to needy passengers. Security personnel also implemented 24-hour CCTV surveillance to ensure the safety and security of all pilgrims. Security personnel were stationed at boarding and alighting points to maintain order and assist passengers, especially those with disabilities.
DRM Sealdah Sri Rajeev Saxena said that, Sealdah Division’s commitment to providing seamless services during the Gangasagar Mela has been widely appreciated by pilgrims alike. The division’s success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its employees, who worked tirelessly to ensure a memorable pilgrimage for millions of devotees.
