Guwahati, 16 June (HS): Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has undertaken extensive preparations to ensure smooth, safe and comfortable travel for thousands of devotees expected to visit the Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati from June 22 to 25.

NF Railway CPRO said today that Anticipating a heavy rush during the annual religious gathering, NFR has planned a series of passenger-centric measures, including operation of special trains, round-the-clock ticketing services, deployment of additional security and railway personnel, establishment of help desks and enquiry counters, and distribution of food packets and drinking water to pilgrims. The arrangements are aimed at ensuring seamless passenger movement, effective crowd management and improved convenience during the festival.

To handle the increased demand, NFR will operate three special unreserved train services with nearly 50 General Second Class coaches, linking Kamakhya with key destinations across Assam and North Bengal. Train No. 05661 Kamakhya–Alipurduar Junction one-way special will depart on June 19, while Train Nos. 05444/05445 Alipurduar–Kamakhya–Alipurduar special services will run daily from June 20 to 22 and June 24 to 27. Additionally, Train No. 05780 New Jalpaiguri–Kamakhya special will operate on June 20 and 27, while Train No. 05779 Kamakhya–New Jalpaiguri special will run on June 21 and 28.

Several regular passenger trains will also be temporarily augmented with 11 additional General Second Class coaches to accommodate the influx of devotees.

For hassle-free ticketing, extra booking counters will remain operational round the clock at Kamakhya and Guwahati railway stations. Dedicated help desks and enquiry counters will also be set up to assist pilgrims with information and guidance.

To strengthen crowd management and security, additional personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP) and railway commercial and technical departments will be deployed at Kamakhya, Guwahati and other key stations. Around 200 volunteers from the NFR Bharat Scouts & Guides will also assist devotees throughout the mela period.

NFR stated that the comprehensive arrangements are designed to provide devotees with a safe, convenient and seamless pilgrimage experience during one of the region's largest spiritual events.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash