PRAYAGRAJ, Sept. 18 -- : In preparation for the 44-day Magh Mela 2026, set to begin on January 3, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) will deploy 3,000 buses to accommodate the expected surge in pilgrim numbers. The increased footfall is anticipated as a post-Mahakumbh effect, following the record-breaking attendance of over 66 crore devotees earlier this year.

According to RK Singh, regional manager of UPSRTC, Prayagraj region, a proposal has already been submitted to the state government for approval. "We are preparing for a heavy rush of pilgrims during the upcoming Magh Mela. Of the 3,000 buses planned, 200 will be kept in reserve to address any unforeseen circumstances," he said. To ensure smooth transportati...