Haridwar, May 13 -- The Mela administration and Indian Railways plan to run at least 15 special trains on key bathing days during the four-month Ardh Kumbh mela next year, officials said on Tuesday, adding that 11 railway stations have also been earmarked for upgrades to handle the pilgrim crowds. The Ardh Kumbh mela is expected begin next year in January and go on till April. These added trains will supplement the usual three dozen on the route, easing travel for hordes of pilgrims heading to Haridwar by rail, officials said. "We are in touch with senior railway officials and the number of trains may increase depending on the expected pilgrim footfall," said Mela officer Sonika. Revamp and expansion work is also planned at sub-stations including Jwalapur, Laksar and Motichur to boost passenger handling and extend train halts. Five holding areas will be created near railway stations to manage crowds. Drawing on lessons from past Kumbh fairs-especially Amrit (Shahi) Snan bathing days-these zones will regulate flows, preventing stampedes by holding, stopping or redirecting passengers at stations. "A total of 11 railway stations in and around Haridwar have been earmarked under the Kumbh Mela project and will be equipped with the required facilities and infrastructure. To ensure better coordination with the Mela administration, the railways have also appointed a Mela officer. Safety, convenience and time-bound train management will be ensured," said Mela officer (railways) Chetan Taneja....