55-Day Kumbh Mela 2013 to Begin in Allahabad From Jan. 14

The 55-day Kumbh Mela congregation will begin at Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh from Jan. 14, 2013. Around four crore people are expected to arrive in the Sangam city to witness the religious festival.

The Uttar Pradesh State Roadways Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) will mobilize around 6,000 additional buses to facilitate hassle-free travel of pilgrims to the Kumbh Mela.

In the first phase (Jan. 10-Feb 5), 1,800 buses will be pressed into service to ferry pilgrims from the state's various bus stations to Allahabad, while in the second phase (Feb. 6-16), 2,000 additional buses will be introduced. In the third phase (Feb. 17-March 10), the UPSRTC will introduce 2,750 additional buses for the devotees heading to the Sangam city.