In view of the upcoming Shivratri festival, Indian Railways has announced a special five-day “Mela Special” train service between Rajkot and Veraval to facilitate the smooth travel of thousands of devotees expected to attend the grand celebrations. Shivratri, one of the most sacred Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, draws massive crowds every year especially to the famous Bhavnath Mahadev temple near Junagadh, located at the foothills of Mount Girnar.
Significance of Shivratri in Saurashtra
Shivratri holds deep spiritual importance across India, but the celebrations in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat are particularly renowned. The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple fair, held annually during Maha Shivratri, attracts saints, sadhus, Naga babas, and devotees from across the country. The midnight “Maha Aarti” and the traditional procession of Naga sadhus heading toward the sacred Mrugi Kund for a ritual bath are among the most anticipated events of the festival.
With lakhs of devotees visiting Junagadh during this period, transportation services experience a sharp surge in demand. Regular train and bus services often run at full capacity, and last-minute travel arrangements can become challenging. Recognizing this seasonal rush, railway authorities have introduced the special Mela train to ensure safe, affordable, and convenient travel for pilgrims.
Route and Connectivity
The special train will operate between Rajkot and Veraval, two major railway stations in the Saurashtra region. Rajkot serves as a key junction connecting several parts of Gujarat, while Veraval is an important coastal town known for its proximity to the Somnath Temple. The rail route passes through Junagadh, making it especially convenient for devotees traveling to attend the Bhavnath fair.
By introducing this temporary service, railways aim to ease congestion on regular trains and reduce overcrowding at stations. The additional train will provide flexibility for passengers who may not secure confirmed seats on scheduled services.
Duration and Schedule
The Mela Special train will run for five days during the peak Shivratri festival period. Although exact timings and halts are determined based on operational feasibility, the schedule is designed to align with major festival events to maximize convenience for travelers.
Passengers are advised to check the official railway website, railway inquiry counters, or mobile booking applications for updated schedules, ticket availability, and reservation details. As with most festival special trains, both reserved and general class coaches are expected to be available to cater to different categories of passengers.
Managing the Festival Rush
Every year, Junagadh witnesses a dramatic increase in footfall during Shivratri. The influx of devotees not only fills trains but also increases pressure on road transport services. Traffic congestion, long queues, and crowded platforms are common during this time.
By running the Mela Special train, authorities hope to:
- Reduce overcrowding on existing train services
- Ensure smoother passenger movement at stations
- Improve safety and crowd management
- Provide affordable travel options for rural and low-income devotees
Railway officials are also likely to deploy additional staff at major stations, including Rajkot, Junagadh, and Veraval, to manage the flow of passengers efficiently. Special arrangements such as help desks, announcement systems, and security monitoring may also be put in place.
Economic and Social Impact
Festival seasons significantly boost local economies. The Shivratri fair in Junagadh supports small businesses, vendors, transport operators, and hospitality services. Hotels and guesthouses often operate at full occupancy, while street vendors and shopkeepers witness increased sales.
Improved railway connectivity during the festival encourages more devotees to attend, thereby contributing to the local economy. Affordable public transport ensures inclusivity, allowing people from different socio-economic backgrounds to participate in religious and cultural traditions.
Moreover, special trains reduce dependency on private vehicles, which in turn helps minimize traffic congestion and environmental impact.
Safety and Passenger Advisory
Travelers planning to use the Mela Special service are encouraged to:
- Book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute inconvenience
- Arrive at the station early, considering the festival rush
- Follow railway safety guidelines
- Keep personal belongings secure
- Stay updated through official railway announcements
Passengers traveling in groups, especially elderly devotees and families with children, should plan their journey carefully and ensure proper coordination at boarding and deboarding points.
A Spiritual Journey Made Easier
For many devotees, attending Shivratri celebrations at Bhavnath is not merely a trip but a deeply spiritual journey. The chanting of “Har Har Mahadev,” the sound of temple bells, devotional music, and the sight of illuminated temple परिसर create an atmosphere of devotion and unity.
By introducing the five-day Mela Special train between Rajkot and Veraval, Indian Railways has taken a thoughtful step toward supporting religious tourism and ensuring that faith-driven travel remains accessible and organized.
As the festival approaches, anticipation builds across Gujarat and beyond. With improved connectivity and proactive planning, devotees can focus on the spiritual essence of Shivratri rather than travel-related concerns.
The initiative reflects how infrastructure and cultural traditions can work hand in hand—where efficient transportation plays a silent yet crucial role in enabling large-scale spiritual gatherings. For thousands of pilgrims preparing for the sacred night of Maha Shivratri, this special train service promises a smoother, safer, and more convenient journey.
As chants echo through the foothills of Girnar and lamps illuminate temple courtyards, the railway tracks connecting Rajkot and Veraval will carry not just passengers, but faith, devotion, and the timeless spirit of Shivratri.
