Sciative Solutions has released a comprehensive analysis of travel trends for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, detailing the remarkable surge in transportation demand as Prayagraj prepares for a massive influx of religious visitors. The study, powered by the company’s AI-enabled price optimization solutions, highlights a 378 per cent increase in bus service supply compared to previous years and reveals that train seat pre-bookings hit 62 per cent of capacity by the end of January.
Vijeta Soni, Co-founder and CEO of Sciative Solutions, commented, “This year’s Maha Kumbh Mela is putting unprecedented pressure on transportation systems. Our analysis shows a 648 per cent spike in bus transport between Delhi and Prayagraj in January alone, underscoring the vital role transport networks play in facilitating one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.”
The report also notes that bus service deployments peaked on February 10th, before stabilising at 34.9 per cent below peak levels. Indian Railways responded by launching additional routes, including Chandigarh–Prayagraj and Ludhiana–Prayagraj, with schedules quadrupling from November 2024 to January 2025.
Soni added, “The success of the Kumbh Mela depends heavily on reliable transportation networks. This year, routes like Delhi–Prayagraj and Kanpur–Prayagraj saw significant increases in passenger demand.”
Bus services have expanded dramatically, with the number of routes increasing from 322 to 1,611 by January 2025. Operators efficiently adjusted their services during peak hours, ensuring seamless travel for the millions heading to Prayagraj.
“The Kumbh Mela is not just a religious event; it’s a logistical challenge of immense scale,” Soni explained. “Efficient travel networks are essential to meeting the demands of such a monumental gathering.”
The report emphasizes the ongoing efforts to adapt to the changing demands of transportation, ensuring smooth travel for pilgrims and showcasing the vital role of transportation infrastructure in accommodating large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh Mela.
