Chaos at Chhatarpur: Devotees Hurl Stones at Packed Maha Kumbh Trains

On Tuesday, chaos erupted at Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur and Harpalpur railway stations as frustrated Maha Kumbh-bound passengers resorted to stone-throwing after finding train doors shut. Packed Prayagraj-bound trains, carrying devotees heading for the holy Mauni Amavasya ‘amrit snan’ on January 29, sparked the uproar when many were unable to board due to overcrowding.

Viral videos from the incident show agitated passengers shouting and attempting to force open train doors, while others hurled stones in protest. Eyewitness RK Singh, a would-be passenger, expressed frustration, stating he missed his chance to travel as doors and windows remained closed despite desperate attempts to board.

Railway officials confirmed the disruptions, with Manoj Kumar Singh, public relations officer for the Jhansi railway division, pledging stricter security and better coordination to prevent such incidents. “We are running trains continuously and adding special trains based on demand. We urge passengers to cooperate,” he added.

After the commotion, Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel managed to open some train doors at Chhatarpur, but overcrowding left many still unable to board. The authorities have since promised improved measures to handle the surge of pilgrims traveling to Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh.

With the influx of devotees expected to grow, railway officials emphasize the importance of maintaining order while ensuring everyone reaches their destination for this auspicious event.