The Uttar Pradesh government has unveiled an ambitious plan to ensure smooth and eco-friendly travel for the millions of devotees expected at the 2025 Mahakumbh Mela. A new online booking system for electric rickshaws (e-rickshaws) and e-autos will be launched on December 15th, offering a green alternative to traditional transportation methods.
This initiative, dubbed "Green Mahakumbh," aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the event. Devotees will be able to book e-rickshaws and e-autos through a dedicated app, much like popular ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and Ola. The service will feature fixed fares, verified drivers, and eco-friendly vehicles, ensuring a safe, affordable, and convenient travel experience.
The e-vehicles will be readily available at key locations across Prayagraj, including the railway station, bus stand, airport, and major hotels. This strategic deployment aims to provide easy access for pilgrims arriving from different parts of India and beyond.
"By offering a fleet of environmentally-friendly electric vehicles, we aim to make the Mahakumbh Mela both a safe and sustainable experience for all," said Manu Gupta, Founder and Director of Comfy E Mobility, the startup responsible for this service. "Our goal is to provide affordable and efficient transportation for the devotees, without the worry of inflated charges or untrained drivers," added Mr. Gupta.
The platform will also prioritize transparency in fare calculations, utilizing a per-kilometre system to eliminate the common issue of inflated fares seen with local rickshaw services. All e-vehicles will be GPS-tracked, and drivers will undergo comprehensive training to enhance customer service and ensure passenger safety. Furthermore, a dedicated call centre will be available to address any complaints or concerns.
Recognizing the importance of women's safety and comfort, the initiative will also feature a "Pink Taxi" service, operated exclusively by female drivers. This service is designed to offer women devotees a safe and comfortable mode of transportation, especially in an environment with large crowds.
The initial fleet will consist of 300 e-rickshaws covering major routes in Prayagraj and within the Kumbh Mela grounds. To enhance accessibility for international devotees, drivers will also be trained in using Google Voice Assistance. This feature aims to bridge language barriers and ensure a smooth travel experience for all pilgrims.
The government's push for an eco-friendly Mahakumbh aligns with its broader environmental goals. By offering electric vehicles, the state hopes to reduce pollution in the region, particularly air pollution caused by the high volume of vehicles during the Mela.
"With this initiative, we are not only offering a convenient travel option for the devotees but also promoting environmental conservation," said RK Chauhan, CEO of Comfy E Mobility. "We believe the Mahakumbh Mela offers a perfect opportunity to launch this eco-friendly service, which will also provide employment opportunities and contribute to cleaner air in the region."
Following the Mahakumbh, Comfy E Mobility plans to expand its services to other cities across Uttar Pradesh, furthering its mission of promoting electric vehicle use and reducing pollution in urban areas. The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is expected to attract not only millions of Hindu devotees but also people from diverse communities around the world. The introduction of this eco-friendly transportation system is being seen as a step towards integrating environmental consciousness with cultural and spiritual tourism.
"We hope that this service will not only enhance the experience of the pilgrims but also carry a strong message of environmental awareness and cultural harmony," said Chauhan. With this new initiative, the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is set to be a landmark event, not just for its religious significance but also as a model of sustainable tourism.
