Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], December 2: In a pioneering move to ensure smooth, safe, and environmentally conscious travel for millions of devotees attending the 2025 Mahakumbh Mela, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced the launch of an online booking system for electric rickshaws (e-rickshaws) and e-autos.
This initiative, aimed at minimizing the carbon footprint of the event, is part of the state’s vision to host a “Green Mahakumbh.” Starting from December 15, devotees will be able to book e-rickshaws and e-autos via a dedicated app, similar to popular ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola.
Developed in partnership with government and private transport providers, the service will feature fixed fares, verified drivers, and eco-friendly vehicles, ensuring that the transportation needs of pilgrims are met in an affordable and hassle-free manner. The e-vehicles will be available for booking at key locations in Prayagraj, such as the railway station, bus stand, airport, and major hotels.
With an expected 45 crore devotees, the initiative is designed to address transportation challenges during the event. “By offering a fleet of eco-friendly electric vehicles, we aim to make the Mahakumbh Mela a sustainable and safe experience for everyone,” said Manu Gupta, Founder and Director of Comfy E Mobility, the startup responsible for the service.
The platform will ensure transparent fare calculations with a per-kilometer system to avoid inflated prices, a common issue with local rickshaws. All e-vehicles will be GPS-tracked, and drivers will undergo extensive training to ensure high standards of safety and customer service. Additionally, a dedicated call center will be available for addressing passenger concerns.
In response to safety concerns, particularly for women, the initiative will feature a “Pink Taxi” service, operated exclusively by women drivers. This service will provide a secure and comfortable transport option for female devotees, especially in the crowds that the event attracts.
The fleet will initially consist of 300 e-rickshaws covering major routes within Prayagraj and the Kumbh Mela grounds. To ensure accessibility for international visitors, drivers will also be trained to use Google Voice Assistance, overcoming any language barriers.
This eco-friendly initiative aligns with the state’s environmental goals to reduce pollution, especially air pollution caused by the large volume of vehicles during the Mela. Comfy E Mobility, the company behind the project, is committed to sustainability and sees the Mahakumbh Mela as an ideal platform to introduce their service.
“By promoting the use of electric vehicles, we aim to reduce the environmental impact of this major religious gathering,” said RK Chauhan, CEO of Comfy E Mobility. “This initiative not only offers convenient travel options for pilgrims but also helps create employment opportunities and contributes to cleaner air.”
After the Mahakumbh, Comfy E Mobility plans to expand the service across other cities in Uttar Pradesh to further encourage electric vehicle use and reduce urban pollution.
The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is expected to draw millions of Hindu devotees and visitors from around the world. The introduction of this eco-friendly transportation system is seen as a significant step toward integrating environmental consciousness with cultural and spiritual tourism.
“We hope this service will enhance the pilgrims’ experience and send a powerful message of environmental awareness and cultural unity,” added Chauhan.
With this initiative, the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is poised to be a landmark event, not only for its religious importance but also as a model of sustainable tourism.