To facilitate the massive influx of devotees traveling for the annual Kanwar Mela, the Northern Railway’s Moradabad Division has announced significant temporary measures. From July 30 to August 14, 2026, the railway will attach two additional general coaches to eight key trains to ensure safe and comfortable transit for those heading to sacred sites like Haridwar, Kachhla, and Garhmukteshwar.
- Extra capacity: Two additional general coaches added to eight key trains.
- Duration: Services will be augmented from July 30 to August 14, 2026.
- Key routes: Haridwar Express, Howrah Haridwar Express, Dehradun-Haridwar Express, Janata, and various passenger services.
- Security: Joint RPF and GRP deployment with specialized ATS and bomb disposal units.
- Guidelines: Mandatory ID cards for volunteers and strict height limits for vehicles.
Enhanced Connectivity and Train Services
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Mahesh Yadav confirmed that the decision aims to handle the peak pilgrim flow, which is expected to be highest between August 8 and 11. The temporary coach augmentation will benefit passengers on the Haridwar Express, Howrah Haridwar Express, Dehradun-Haridwar Express, Janata, Bareilly-Kasganj Passenger, Lal Kuan Passenger, and Kathgodam-Kasganj Passenger. Authorities have mandated that all preparatory arrangements be completed by July 25 to ensure seamless operations.
Security and Administrative Oversight
In addition to technical railway arrangements, a robust security framework is being implemented. The GRP and RPF will maintain a heavy presence at major stations, supported by the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), Quick Response Teams (QRT), and dog squads. Coordination meetings involving multiple states—including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh—have been held to ensure a unified approach to crowd management.
Travel Guidelines for Devotees
District administration officials, including the District Magistrate and SSP, have clarified that no new traditions will be permitted during the Yatra. Strict rules are in place regarding DJ setups, with a combined height limit of 12 feet for vehicles. Furthermore, Kanwar Help Desks will be operational at all major stations, and special announcements will be made on trains heading toward pilgrimage destinations. Passengers are strongly advised to carry valid identity cards at all times. Authorities will also maintain rigorous surveillance on social media to prevent the spread of misinformation, ensuring the event remains safe and organized for all travelers.