To manage the massive influx of devotees during the sacred Sawan and Bhado months of 2026, the Western Railway’s Ratlam Division has rolled out a comprehensive plan to boost connectivity and passenger safety. With a focus on the Mahakal Temple and Kuberishwar Dham, the railways have introduced new Mela Special trains and implemented strict crowd management protocols at key stations to ensure a smooth travel experience for millions of pilgrims.
- Six unreserved Mela Special trains will operate daily between Ujjain, Bhopal, and Sant Hirdaram Nagar from July 28 to September 9, 2026.
- A new one-way traffic system at Ujjain station directs entry through Platform 1 and exit via Platform 8.
- The newly inaugurated Nishatpura Railway Station in Bhopal now serves as a key transit point to save travel time.
- Enhanced security includes drone surveillance and a 1,200-capacity waterproof holding area for passengers.
Expanded Train Services
To facilitate travel, the Western Railway is running three pairs of unreserved Mela Special trains. The services include the 09306 Sant Hirdaram Nagar-Ujjain Mela Special, the 09308 Bhopal-Ujjain Mela Special, and the 09313 Ujjain-Sant Hirdaram Nagar Mela Special. These trains will provide convenient stops at Tarana Road, Maksi, and Sehore. Furthermore, the railways have extended the runs of ten existing special trains, with bookings opening on July 29, 2026, to accommodate the heavy rush.
Station Upgrades and Security Measures
At Ujjain railway station, operational changes are in effect from July 30 to September 7, 2026. To prevent overcrowding, the goods shed entry has been closed, and a no-vehicle zone has been established at the main gate. RPF Station In-charge Narendra Yadav confirmed that drone cameras and additional security personnel are actively monitoring the premises. These infrastructure trials are strategically designed to prepare the network for the massive Simhastha Mahaparv in 2028.
New Connectivity in Bhopal
On July 28, 2026, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the Nishatpura Railway Station, Bhopal’s fourth major station. This facility is a game-changer as it eliminates the need for time-consuming engine reversals for trains heading from New Delhi toward Ujjain and Indore. Both the Malwa Express and the Veraval-Jabalpur Express have been granted official stoppages at this station, significantly improving travel efficiency for pilgrims and regular passengers alike.