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The Odisha government has introduced special bus services to help pilgrims from the state travel to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh with ease. The services, inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi through a virtual event, aim to simplify travel for devotees while ensuring their safety and comfort. Operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), the buses feature sleeper and seating options to make long journeys more convenient.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a grand spiritual event attracting devotees nationwide, began on Monday and will continue until February 26. The buses operate from Puri, Sambalpur, Bhawanipatna, and Berhampur, connecting to Prayagraj via Varanasi. These routes aim to provide seamless connectivity for pilgrims embarking on this significant spiritual journey.
Special Features and Benefits
To support women travelers, the government offers a 50% fare discount, making the trip more affordable for families and female devotees. The buses are equipped with safety features, including tracking devices and emergency buttons, while drivers are trained to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Sabita Mahapatra, a pilgrim from Puri, expressed her gratitude for the initiative, saying she could attend the Maha Kumbh for the first time with her husband thanks to the accessible and comfortable services. This sentiment was echoed by many as over 200 residents of Odisha began their pilgrimage on the service's opening day.
Booking and Fare Details
Reservations can be made through OSRTC's website, mobile app, or local counters. The round trip spans 2,500 km and includes meals, with fares set at Rs 1.50 per kilometre. OSRTC has also arranged tent accommodations at the Mela site and stationed staff in Prayagraj to assist travelers, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Plans for Expansion
The Odisha government is not stopping with the Maha Kumbh Mela. Plans are underway to extend these bus services to other major religious destinations, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, Vrindavan, Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple, and Tirupati. Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena emphasized that these efforts aim to meet the spiritual needs of the people while promoting religious tourism.
The launch of direct bus services to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela reflects Odisha's commitment to enhancing religious tourism. By providing safe, affordable, and comfortable travel options, the government ensures that devotees can focus on their spiritual journey. With future plans to expand these services, Odisha is set to play a key role in connecting its citizens to India's cultural and spiritual heritage.
