Varanasi Cantt Railway Station is gearing up for a major influx of pilgrims as the holy month of Sawan approaches, running from July 30 to August 28, 2026. With authorities expecting an average daily footfall of 1.5 lakh passengers, the railway administration has launched a “Kumbh-like” preparation strategy to ensure passenger safety and operational efficiency. Following a high-level coordination meeting held on July 17, chaired by Upper Divisional Railway Manager B.K. Yadav, the station has finalized several critical measures:
- Heightened Security: Joint operations by GRP and RPF, including plainclothes officers disguised as Kanwariyas.
- Tech-Driven Surveillance: Real-time monitoring via 187 CCTV cameras and mandatory metal detector screening.
- Special Connectivity: Operation of 17 pairs of special trains to Baba Dham and other religious hubs.
- Operational Adjustments: Implementation of a vegetarian-only food policy and potential “no-vehicle zones” in circulating areas.
Enhanced Security and Crowd Management
To ensure a secure environment, the RPF and GRP are working in tandem to maintain order. Security personnel will be stationed strategically, with plainclothes officers tasked with identifying suspicious activities amidst the crowds. The station perimeter, along with neighboring stations like Bhadohi, Janghai, Sultanpur, Jaunpur, and Kashi, will remain under high alert. To manage the dense footfall, the administration has authorized the use of Mobile UTS to reduce queue times, while emergency medical rooms and a 24-hour health unit will be active throughout the month.
Special Train Services for Pilgrims
Recognizing the massive demand for travel, Indian Railways has introduced comprehensive transport solutions. A highlight of the schedule is the unreserved Shravani Mela Special Train (05028/05027), which will run daily between Bardhni and Deoghar from July 29 to August 30, completing a total of 33 trips. Furthermore, capacity has been increased on existing services; the Mahakal Express and Lucknow-Varanasi Shuttle Express have each received two additional coaches. New stoppages have also been introduced on several routes to accommodate the needs of long-distance pilgrims.
City-Wide Coordination
The railway’s effort is supported by city authorities, with Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal overseeing traffic management. A “no entry” policy for large vehicles will be enforced in Varanasi city from 5 AM to 11 PM to prevent congestion near the station. Passengers are advised that the main circulating area may be designated as a “no-vehicle zone,” and platforms may be utilized to hold passengers during periods of extreme density to ensure safe crowd dispersal.