The roads leading to Prayagraj and the Mahakumbh Mela are witnessing an overwhelming surge of devotees. From highways to railway stations, a sea of pilgrims is making its way to the sacred gathering. The situation is so intense that not only are people flocking from Uttar Pradesh, but a large number of travelers from Madhya Pradesh and other states are also adding to the congestion at various railway stations.
In light of this massive influx, ADG Law and Order has been deployed to Prayagraj to oversee the crowd management. Air travel remains an expensive option for most, and roadways are heavily congested. On Sunday, long queues of vehicles, stretching up to 20 kilometers, were reported at seven key entry points to Prayagraj, including highways connecting to Varanasi, Mirzapur, Lucknow, and Rewa.
Unbearable Traffic Jams and Overcrowded Trains
Devotees traveling by train to Prayagraj are facing extreme crowding. Whether it’s AC coaches or general compartments, every inch of space is occupied. Many desperate travelers are even climbing onto the engine just to reach their destination. The traffic situation has worsened to such an extent that ADG Law and Order Amitabh Yash has been assigned to take control. He has been directed to reach Prayagraj via a special aircraft to handle the crisis.
Railway Minister Addresses Concerns
As concerns rise over the railway congestion, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has questioned the administration’s preparedness for the event. In response, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reassured the public, stating, “Prayagraj Junction is fully operational. Please do not believe in rumors.” According to government data, nearly 1.5 crore devotees are arriving daily for the holy dip at the Mahakumbh. However, the journey to reach Prayagraj has turned into a test of patience, with travelers from Delhi taking an average of 26 hours to reach their destination.
Risky Travel Choices Amidst the Rush
Every devotee arriving in Prayagraj aims to complete their journey at the Sangam for a sacred dip. However, the lack of available transport options is pushing people toward unsafe choices. Many pilgrims are traveling in small cargo vehicles, commonly known as ‘pickup trucks’ or ‘Chhota Haathi,’ which usually carry goods. Though designed to accommodate about 10 passengers, these vehicles are now carrying up to 20 people, with some even hanging onto the sides. Such risky travel methods are being adopted due to the high fares of other transport options.
The Surge Ahead of Magh Purnima
As Magh Purnima (February 12) approaches, the influx of pilgrims is expected to increase further. Millions of devotees from across the country are eager to take a dip in the Triveni Sangam for spiritual merit. The surge has already resulted in major road congestion, making it difficult for local residents to go about their daily lives. Highways leading to Prayagraj are witnessing long vehicle queues, causing significant delays.
Authorities Urging People to Return Home
With the worsening traffic situation, authorities in Madhya Pradesh’s Katni district have started requesting devotees to return home. The police in Katni are stopping vehicles on national highways and urging travelers to reconsider their plans. Using loudspeakers, traffic officials are making announcements, warning of severe congestion ahead. Many pilgrims are now left with no choice but to turn back due to the overwhelming crowd.
Common Passengers Face Struggles
The heavy rush of devotees has not only affected pilgrims but also regular travelers. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Junction, one of the busiest railway stations on the Delhi-Howrah route, is overwhelmed with crowds. Passengers are finding it extremely difficult to board trains due to the flood of people heading to Prayagraj. Many returning pilgrims are also expressing frustration, claiming that the authorities have failed to manage the crowd effectively. Some report walking up to 30 kilometers just to reach the main areas of the event. Even those with reserved train tickets are struggling to board due to the overwhelming crowd.
Kanpur Central Overloaded with Passengers
To ease congestion in Prayagraj, authorities have started rerouting passengers via special Kumbh trains to Kanpur Central. However, this has only shifted the problem, as Kanpur Central is now overloaded with travelers trying to reach their respective destinations. Whether heading to Mathura, Agra, Farrukhabad, Madhya Pradesh, or Delhi, passengers are struggling to find train options. Many have reached Kanpur Central but are stranded due to a lack of available transport services.
With the Mahakumbh attracting millions and the upcoming Magh Purnima drawing even more devotees, authorities are facing an uphill task in managing the massive influx. Devotees and travelers alike are bracing themselves for long delays, chaotic travel conditions, and an experience unlike any other.
