Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), February 9: Varanasi is witnessing an extraordinary surge in visitors due to the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, leading to overcrowded railway stations. The situation has become so intense that passengers, unable to find seats in trains, resorted to sitting inside the engine. The incident which occurred at Varanasi Cantt railway station in Uttar Pradesh was caught on camera and the video of the incident is doing rounds on social media. It can be seen in the video that few passengers barged into the train engine and locked the door from inside.
Passengers Enter Train Engine Due to Overcrowding
According to reports, the incident occurred around 2 AM on Saturday (February 8) night. A train heading from Varanasi to Prayagraj was stationed at platform number two when some passengers, unable to find seats, entered the train engine and closed the door from inside. The video shows about 20 men and women occupying the engine, treating it like a regular coach.
RPF and GRP Take Action
The railway authorities were quick to respond. The Government Railway Police (GRP) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) arrived at the scene and removed the passengers from the engine. Officials explained that travelling in the engine could be extremely dangerous, as it houses critical operational controls. The passengers were then accommodated in the train’s compartments, ensuring their safety.
Unprecedented Crowds in Varanasi
The Maha Kumbh has attracted lakhs of devotees to Varanasi, resulting in an overwhelming rush across the city. The famous temples, ghats and pilgrimage spots are witnessing massive crowds with devotees reportedly standing in queues stretching three to four kilometers for darshan. The 84 ghats of Kashi are filled with visitors, and railway and bus stations are packed with travellers.
Authorities Issue Warnings
With the increasing rush, railway officials have urged passengers to follow safety guidelines and avoid taking risks by boarding unauthorised areas of trains. Additional security personnel have been deployed to manage the crowd at railway stations.
