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Odisha suspends special bus services to Maha Kumbh Mela until February 4

OSRTC suspends special bus services to Maha Kumbh Mela until Feb 4 after a tragic stampede kills 30 and injures 60

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) on Thursday announced that it will suspend all special bus services to the Maha Kumbh Mela until February 4. This decision comes in response to the unforeseen events at the Mela.

A tragic stampede occurred early Wednesday morning at the Maha Kumbh Mela, claiming the lives of at least 30 people and injuring 60 others. The incident took place at the Sangam area during the pre-dawn hours, as millions of pilgrims crowded together to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya, one of the most auspicious days of the festival.

For those who have already booked tickets to the Maha Kumbh Mela, OSRTC has assured passengers that necessary assistance and reimbursements will be provided where applicable. Travelers are advised to reach out to OSRTC at 9937547773 for further guidance.

The special bus services, which began on January 12, initially included eight buses traveling from Odisha to Prayagraj. These services were scheduled to run until February 26, but have now been temporarily halted until February 4.

The bus service was introduced to accommodate the high demand from devotees traveling to the Mela for sacred rituals. Many choose bus travel over trains or flights due to its affordability and convenience.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, considered one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, attracts millions of pilgrims. The festival, which involves ritualistic bathing in sacred rivers, is held every 12 years at four different locations, with Prayagraj being one of the primary venues.

( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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