Prayagraj Bus Stand, commonly referred to as Civil Lines Bus Stand, is the main bus terminal in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, serving as a key transportation hub for locals, tourists, and millions of pilgrims. Located in the bustling Civil Lines area, it’s a central point for those traveling to the sacred Triveni Sangam or exploring the city’s rich history. With the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 drawing unprecedented crowds, the bus stand has seen significant upgrades and operational changes to handle the surge. As of July 31, 2025, here’s a comprehensive look at the latest developments at Prayagraj Bus Stand, drawn from reliable sources, to help travelers plan their journey.
A Central Hub for Connectivity
Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is one of India’s holiest cities, known for its spiritual landmarks like the Triveni Sangam and the Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years. The Civil Lines Bus Stand is strategically located near major attractions, about 5 kilometers from Allahabad Fort, 4 kilometers from Anand Bhawan, and 3 kilometers from Chandrashekhar Azad Park. It connects Prayagraj to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi, Kanpur, Agra, and beyond through a mix of government-run Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses and private operators. The bus stand operates 24/7, offering seamless access via auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses, making it a lifeline for travelers.
Maha Kumbh 2025: Massive Bus Operations
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, held from January 13 to February 26, was a historic event, attracting over 60 crore pilgrims, surpassing initial estimates of 40 crore. To manage this influx, UPSRTC rolled out an ambitious transportation plan, deploying 7,000 buses, including 550 shuttle buses dedicated to the fairgrounds. Of these, 350 were free shuttle buses adorned with the Maha Kumbh logo, offering pilgrims complimentary rides during key bathing festivals like Mauni Amavasya and Basant Panchami. Additionally, 200 electric buses operated as urban shuttles, promoting eco-friendly travel within Prayagraj.
To streamline operations, eight temporary bus stations were set up in the Mela area, including at Saraswati Gate Jhunsi and Naini. These stations facilitated smooth transit for pilgrims arriving from various districts. UPSRTC also deployed 22 officers to oversee operations, supported by quick-response teams with interceptor vehicles and technical experts on seven key routes leading to Prayagraj. Temporary workshops ensured bus maintenance, minimizing disruptions during the 45-day event.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized passenger safety and convenience, directing UPSRTC to operate buses from all Uttar Pradesh districts to Prayagraj. A detailed timetable was publicized to avoid confusion, and strict rules were enforced against overloading and fare exploitation by private operators. Drivers and conductors faced checks to prevent intoxicant use, ensuring safe journeys.
Civil Lines Bus Stand Revamp
Ahead of the Maha Kumbh 2025, the Civil Lines Bus Stand underwent a major redevelopment, approved by the state government in July 2023 at a cost of ₹149 crore. The project, executed on a public-private partnership (PPP) model by Omaxe, transformed the 18,000-square-meter depot into a modern facility akin to an airport terminal. Completed in late 2024, the revamped bus stand features a multi-story building, separate bus platforms, luggage scanners, clean toilets, comfortable seating, and a food court. These upgrades aim to rival premium bus stations like Lucknow’s Alambagh depot while boosting UPSRTC’s commercial revenue through shops and cafeterias.
The revamped terminal offers improved passenger amenities, including digital boards for bus timings and routes, enhanced waiting areas, and better security with CCTV and scanners. This facelift has made Civil Lines a model bus station, catering to the massive pilgrim rush during the Maha Kumbh while serving daily commuters year-round.
Expanded Regional Bus Services
The Maha Kumbh prompted several states to launch special bus services to Prayagraj. Bihar State Road Transport Corporation started two non-AC Tata buses from Patna to Prayagraj, operating daily until February 28, 2025, with round-trip bookings available. Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi flagged off luxury buses from Puri, Sambalpur, Bhawanipatna, and Berhampur, offering 50% fare discounts for women and a 24/7 helpline (1800-345-1122). These buses also covered Ayodhya and Varanasi, enhancing pilgrimage routes. Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) introduced a daily HVAC bus from ISBT-17, departing at noon and arriving at Nehru Park, Prayagraj, by 7:25 AM the next day, with a fare of ₹1,662.
Noida administration also launched bus services from Dadri to Prayagraj starting in December 2024, easing travel for Delhi-NCR pilgrims. Varanasi operated 320 buses to transport devotees from its bus stand to the Mela grounds, reinforcing regional connectivity. These initiatives highlight Prayagraj Bus Stand’s role as a convergence point for interstate pilgrims.
Technology and Booking Enhancements
Booking bus tickets to and from Prayagraj has never been easier, thanks to platforms like redBus and MakeMyTrip. RedBus offers real-time updates on UPSRTC and private bus schedules, seat availability, and fares, with discounts like ₹300 off on Andhra Pradesh and Telangana routes. Its Primo service ensures high-rated buses with hygiene, punctuality, and comfort. MakeMyTrip provides similar convenience, allowing travelers to filter for amenities like blankets, charging points, and sanitizers. UPSRTC’s online portal and the Chalo app, partnered with Prayagraj City Transport Service Limited (PCTSL), enable live bus tracking, helping commuters avoid long waits at stops.
Challenges and Safety Measures
The Maha Kumbh brought logistical challenges, including traffic congestion and safety concerns. A tragic accident on the Prayagraj-Mirzapur highway claimed 10 lives when a car carrying Maha Kumbh devotees collided with a bus, underscoring the need for robust safety protocols. In response, authorities established a “No Vehicle” zone across the Mela region, allowing only emergency and authorized vehicles. Designated parking areas and strict traffic regulations eased foot traffic, while UPSRTC’s Pink Express buses, equipped with GPS, CCTV, and women conductors, enhanced safety for female travelers.
Accessibility and Nearby Attractions
The bus stand’s central location ensures easy access to Prayagraj’s landmarks. It’s 5–6 kilometers from Prayagraj Junction and 12 kilometers from Prayagraj Airport, connected by taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses. Nearby hotels like Grand Continental and Kohinoor cater to various budgets. For pilgrims, the bus stand is a gateway to the Kumbh Mela grounds and Triveni Sangam, while tourists can explore Anand Bhawan, a Nehru family museum, or the historic Allahabad Fort.
Looking Ahead
Prayagraj Bus Stand has emerged stronger post-Maha Kumbh 2025, with its modernized Civil Lines depot and expanded bus services setting a new standard for pilgrim travel. UPSRTC plans to extend rural routes in the Prayagraj region, adding 20 new routes, and aims to maintain enhanced infrastructure like the twin bus station. Travelers should book early via redBus or UPSRTC’s portal, especially during festivals, and check schedules for shuttle services.
