The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) on Thursday, announced the suspension of all special bus services to Ayodhya until February 4.These services, launched by the Odisha government, were designed to provide a convenient route for devotees travelling to Ayodhya through Prayagraj during the ongoing Maha Kumbh festival.
The decision to temporarily halt the services was made in response to the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, which claimed the lives of 30 people.The OSRTC took this step to ensure the safety of passengers and to assess the situation after the incident.
The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) issued a statement announcing the cancellation of the Special Bus Service to Ayodhya for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, effective immediately until February 4, 2025, due to unavoidable circumstances. The corporation assured that updates will be provided through their official social media channels and website.
Special bus services from Odisha to Ayodhya were introduced on January 12 to meet the increasing demand from pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh Mela. These services were initially scheduled to operate until February 26.
In light of the recent suspension, the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) announced that passengers who had already booked tickets for travel until February 4 will receive a full refund. A dedicated helpline (9937547773) has also been set up to assist the pilgrims with any queries.
At least 30 people were killed and 60 injured in a stampede at the Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh Mela. The tragic incident occurred around 2 am on Wednesday as tightly packed crowds were gathering at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. According to the police, the stampede was triggered when barricades at the ghats broke, causing people to step on devotees who were resting on the ground.
About the Maha Kumbh stampede
More than seven people lost their lives, and around 10 others were injured in a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday. The tragic event happened as millions of devotees gathered for a holy dip on the most sacred day of the festival. An official confirmed the incident but did not want to be named.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, known as the world’s largest religious gathering, takes place once every 12 years. This year, officials expected a record crowd of around 100 million people due to a rare celestial event occurring after 144 years.