Lucknow: To prepare for the grand Mahakumbh in 2025, Uttar Pradesh is ready to usher in enhancements in transportation services, beginning on December 15, 2024, with online vehicle bookings and the introduction of “pink taxis.”
The aim is to allow easy travel for the millions of pilgrims and tourists who will visit Prayagraj for the fair.
Digital Vehicle Booking System
The Uttar Pradesh government is implementing an online vehicle booking system for the convenience of attendees. The system, set to be user-friendly, will allow visitors to pre-book transportation services, including buses and taxis.
The system will be available as mobile applications or on the web and is intended to ease traffic congestion on the ground during peak pilgrimage time.
The platform will provide real-time updates on vehicle availability and routes. The initiative not only allows the facility of timely and accurate information but will also enhance the planning processes for the travelers.
The Mahakumbh is slated to be held in January and February 2025, and this digital initiative is thus an indicator of the state’s commitment to modernizing pilgrimage logistics.
Pink Taxis
A major emphasis of the transport strategy is the introduction of “pink taxis,” which are only to be operated by women who will assure safety and comfort for women travelers.
The vehicles will preferentially service female pilgrims and families, thus falling in line with the state responsibilities during large-scale events toward sensibly handling gender issues.
They are equipped with GPS tracking, emergency response systems, and vetted drivers for extra security. The initiative is expected to empower female drivers by creating employment opportunities and in catering accordingly to the safety needs of women visitors.
Preparations for Mahakumbh 2025
Mahakumbh, which is held once every 12 years, is among the largest religious gatherings in the world. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that Mahakumbh 2025 will be a showcase that will relay the cultural presence and infrastructural preparedness of the state to the world.
To handle the expected congregation of more than 40 crore pilgrims, the state has made sweeping preparations, including:
Expanding road and rail facilities in Prayagraj and the vicinity
Ensuring cleanliness with such sanitary facilities, deploying modern crowd management and surveillance systems. Apart from all of these, the state will hold nationally and internationally roadshows to promote Mahakumbh as a spiritual and cultural experience that should be visited.
Revamping Infrastructure and Boosting Tourism
The modern vehicle booking application and pink taxis are likely to considerably enhance transportation facilities available for the tourist in Uttar Pradesh.
These steps thus form the stepping stone for a broader initiative to place Uttar Pradesh in the international map and make pilgrimage for the attendees smooth.
Mahakumbh 2025 is thus likely to be a historic event that sets new standards in logistics, safety, and hospitality of religious gatherings across the globe.
