Prayagraj Faces 300-KM-Long Traffic Jam as Millions Arrive for Maha Kumbh
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is witnessing one of the worst traffic jams in history as a 300-km-long congestion has paralysed the city’s major routes leading to the Maha Kumbh Mela. Lakhs of devotees, trying to reach Triveni Sangam for a holy dip, remain stranded for hours, causing frustration and delays.
Unprecedented Traffic Snarls as Pilgrims Struggle to Reach Sangam
On Sunday, thousands of vehicles came to a standstill as they struggled to move towards Prayagraj. The congestion extended across the major routes leading to the Civil Lines area, with alternative routes like Shastri Bridge also witnessing severe traffic jams.
According to Maihar Police in Madhya Pradesh, the situation has worsened to the extent that reaching Prayagraj has become nearly “impossible.” Reports indicate that the traffic jam stretches from Katni to the Uttar Pradesh border in Rewa’s Chakghat, covering approximately 250 km.
Eyewitnesses Share Their Frustration
Frustrated commuters took to social media to share their experiences, with one traveler stating, “Traffic jam of 15 km before Jabalpur… still 400 km to Prayagraj. Please check the traffic status before heading to Mahakumbh.”
Another user wrote, “Caught in probably the biggest traffic jam (15-20 km) in the world at Kumbh… Prayagraj is completely gridlocked.”
Since the Maha Kumbh began on January 13, over 43 crore devotees have already taken a holy dip in the sacred rivers. The festival will continue until February 26, with more pilgrims expected in the coming weeks.
Akhilesh Yadav Slams UP Government Over Traffic Mismanagement
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Yogi Adityanath government over the massive traffic jams, urging immediate emergency measures to assist stranded pilgrims. He highlighted the plight of devotees stuck in traffic for hours without food or water.
“Immediate emergency arrangements should be made for the millions of devotees stuck at the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh. The pilgrims, hungry, thirsty, exhausted, and stuck in traffic from all sides, should be viewed with humanity. Isn’t the common devotee a human being?” Yadav said.
He further demanded toll-free movement for vehicles during the Maha Kumbh, stating, “On the occasion of Mahakumbh, vehicles in UP should be made toll-free; this would reduce travel obstacles and the problem of traffic jams. If films can be made tax-free for entertainment, why can’t vehicles be made tax-free during this great festival?”
Prayagraj District Administration Announces Travel Restrictions
To manage the growing traffic crisis, the Prayagraj district administration has announced travel restrictions at Sangam station. The station will remain closed for passenger movement from 1:30 PM on February 9 to 12:00 midnight on February 14.
However, authorities assured that train operations will continue at eight other stations, including Prayagraj Chheoki, Naini, Prayagraj Junction, Subedarganj, Prayag, Phaphamau, Prayagraj Rambagh, and Jhusi.
Travel Advisory for Devotees Heading to Maha Kumbh
Pilgrims and travelers are advised to check the latest traffic updates before heading to Prayagraj. Given the massive congestion, using alternative routes, opting for train travel, or delaying travel plans could help avoid long hours of gridlock.
With more devotees expected in the coming days, authorities are under pressure to implement effective traffic management strategies to ensure smooth movement during this grand religious gathering.
For more updates on Maha Kumbh 2025 and Prayagraj traffic news, stay tuned!
