Prayagraj: 50 percent hike in boat fares before MahaKumbh, more than 4000 boats expected to arrive at Sangam Ganga lclam

Before the Mahakumbh starting from January 2025 in Prayagraj, UP, the ‘Kumbh Mela Administration’ has approved a 50 percent increase in the fare of boatmen. According to Additional District Magistrate Mahakumbh Vivek Chaturvedi, this decision has been taken after a long standing demand of the sailors and a fruitful discussion between the Prayagraj District Sailors Association and the fair administration.

Welcoming this step, Prayagraj District Sailors Association President Pappu Lal Nishad said that despite rising inflation, the boat fare has remained unchanged over the years. He praised the decision of the administration and called it an important step in favor of the welfare of the sailors.

Following the increase in boat fares, strict measures will be implemented to ensure that devotees are not overcharged. According to ADM Mela, to maintain transparency, a revised list of boat fares is being prepared and it will be prominently displayed at all ghats and parking areas.

Meanwhile, the administration has also banned the movement of vehicles for the safety of the devotees. The ban on motorboats will continue, but traditional boats can be operated even on major bathing festivals.

According to the news agency, Sub Divisional Magistrate of Mahakumbh Abhinav Pathak said that the decision regarding boat operation during festivals will be taken depending on the weather and crowd conditions. He said, “At present, 1,455 boats are plying in Sangam, but this number is expected to exceed 4,000 due to arrival of boats from neighboring districts during Mahakumbh. All boats will be security checked before issuing the license and the boatmen will be given life safety certificates. Jacket will be provided. Additionally, each sailor will get an insurance coverage of ₹2 lakh.”