December 12, 2023 – The Prayagraj administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for the visitors expected to attend the upcoming Magh Mela, slated to commence from January 14 next year. In anticipation of the large influx of pilgrims, the North Central Railways (NCR) is set to introduce an innovative solution – 60 sleeping pods at the Prayagraj railway junction.
Measuring eight feet in length and six feet in width, these compact and cost-effective sleeping pods are designed to provide a comfortable haven for pilgrims during the Magh Mela celebrations. Officials reveal that each pod will be available for booking at a flexible cost ranging from INR 500 to INR 1,500 for a 12-hour period. The hotel, strategically located in the old booking office on the Civil Lines side of Prayagraj Junction, boasts its own cafeteria to enhance the pilgrim’s experience.
The sleeping pods are expected to be operational before the inaugural Magh Mela bathing festival on Makar Sankranti (January 15), marking the beginning of the 54-day fair. Awarded to a Pune-based company after a tender floated by the Prayagraj division of NCR, the ‘sleeping pod’ hotel project aims to provide a unique and convenient accommodation option.
Amit Singh, spokesperson for NCR’s Prayagraj Division, expressed optimism about the timely launch of this facility at Prayagraj Junction. The 60 sleeping pods, resembling capsule-sized rooms, will be equipped with modern amenities such as phone charging, Wi-Fi, locker rooms, and bathrooms. Among them, 45 are designated for single occupants, 10 for double occupants, five for small families, and an additional 10 exclusively reserved for women passengers. This initiative aligns with the administration’s commitment to enhance the overall experience for Magh Mela pilgrims.