Mahakumbh Stampede:
In the aftermath of the stampede at Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, the administration is exercising heightened caution. As a safety measure, the Daraganj railway station has been completely shut down. The recently opened Sangam Junction has also been closed as millions of devotees flock to the banks of the river for the 'Amrit Snan' on Mauni Amavasya. Devotees have been stopped at the Bhadohi border and are being accommodated in temporary holding areas.
Despite these efforts, people heading to Mahakumbh are struggling. Roads leading to Prayagraj are barricaded to control the masses. Commuter trains from stations like Chandauli are currently halted.
Source: aajtak
Regarding the closure of Daraganj and Sangam Junction stations, the administration states that it was pre-planned. During royal/Amrit bathing, these stations will remain closed one day prior and two days after, while functioning normally at other times.
Railway Stations Closed, Passengers Face Difficulties
In view of Mauni Amavasya, Daraganj railway station will be closed from January 28 to February 5. To strengthen security, CRPF personnel are deployed at the main entrance, with notices about the closure prominently displayed, posing challenges for regular passengers who must seek alternative routes.
Bhadohi Administration on Alert Too
Following the stampede, the administration in the neighboring Bhadohi district is on alert, preventing devotees from proceeding to Prayagraj at the Bhadohi border. Along the Varanasi-Prayagraj National Highway 19, barricades have halted approximately 5,000 vehicles.
Source: aajtak
In consideration of pilgrims' needs, five holding areas have been prepared with provisions for rest and food. SP Abhimanyu Manglik stated that devotees will be allowed to proceed once instructions are received from Prayagraj. These steps are crucial for managing the throngs heading to Mahakumbh.
Source: aajtak
Please note that the national highway from Bhadohi connects Varanasi to Prayagraj, which sees heavy pilgrim traffic on the day of Mauni Amavasya. Similarly, police remain vigilant on the Lucknow-Raebareli-Prayagraj route.
