Maha Kumbh 2025: App-Based E-Rickshaws and E-Autos to Boost Transport

04 Dec 2024 CW Team

In preparation for Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, app-based e-rickshaw and e-auto services will be introduced from December 15 on platforms like Ola and Uber. This initiative aims to provide devotees with eco-friendly, affordable, and transparent transport options while curbing arbitrary fare practices.

The service will feature trained drivers equipped with language assistance tools, ensuring courteous interactions with visitors. To enhance safety, a fleet of 30-40 women-driven "pink taxis" will also be operational. Fares will be pre-determined on a per-kilometer basis to maintain affordability.

Comfy E Mobility, a UP-based Startup India-recognised company, is leading the e-rickshaw project. Founder Manu Gupta highlighted that the fleet of 300 GPS-enabled e-rickshaws with covered seating will operate without charging drivers commissions, offering affordable rides to passengers. Verified drivers and call center support will ensure safety and address commuter issues.

Aligned with the Yogi government’s goal of hosting an environmentally friendly Maha Kumbh, this initiative also serves as a pilot for eco-friendly urban transport in Uttar Pradesh, with plans to expand post-Maha Kumbh.

The Maha Kumbh 2025, the world’s largest human congregation, will take place from January 13 to February 26, with an estimated 450 million devotees expected. Supporting infrastructure includes 7,000 roadways buses, 550 shuttle buses, and 3,000 trains, including 1,000 additional services.

The Uttar Pradesh government has also designated the Maha Kumbh area as a new district, named "Maha Kumbh Mela District," to streamline administration for the event. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Uttar Pradesh on December 13 to review preparations and inaugurate key development projects, ensuring seamless management of this historic gathering. (ET)

Infrastructure Urban

06 Jul 2026

ABS Marine Sees CRISIL Credit Rating Upgrade

ABS Marine Services has secured an upgrade to its long term and short term credit ratings from CRISIL, reflecting improved profitability and revenue growth through long term contracts. CRISIL moved the long term rating from BBB+/Stable to A-/Stable and revised the short term rating from A2 to A2+. The action signals strengthened financial metrics and operational resilience. The company benefited from durable client relationships with firms such as ONGC and Schlumberger. The rating decision followed stronger cash flows and an enlarged bank loan facility, which increased from Rs 3,705 million (m..

Project BRAHMANK Marks 16 Years Of Strategic Roads In Arunachal

Project BRAHMANK is marking 16 years of work to establish strategic road and bridge links across Arunachal Pradesh, maintaining and developing 811 kilometres of roads and nearly 86 bridges that range from small culverts to large steel and arch bridges. These transport links are described as critical for ensuring year-round movement of defence personnel, equipment and essential supplies while improving everyday travel for people in remote villages. The project balances national security requirements with regional development by focusing on reliable access in challenging terrain. Notable enginee..

Longleng CSOs Give One Week Ultimatum Over Two-Lane Highway

Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Longleng district have demanded immediate restoration of the deteriorating Changtongya–Longleng two-lane road and sought a detailed status report on the stalled construction within one week. The demand followed a consultative meeting convened under the Phom Peoples' Council (PPC) to discuss welfare and development concerns. PPC president YB Angam Phom said prolonged non-maintenance had caused hardship to commuters and affected transportation, local commerce and the district's development. The meeting urged authorities to undertake immediate restoration a..