The legendary pilgrimage site, Prayagraj, during the Maha Kumbh
(Mahakumbh Jam Latest Updates News)
, is witnessing what could be the biggest traffic jam of this century. An overwhelming influx of pilgrims aiming for the holy dip has brought around 1.5 million vehicles into Prayagraj city in the past three days. In the 25-day duration, this sacred city has seen a traffic surge of over 435 million devotees. Astoundingly, around 15 million pilgrims bathed just yesterday, bewildering the world with pictures of crowded streets and severe traffic jams, yet the flow of devotees remains unceasing in this grand celebration of faith.
The situation is tense, especially with the Maagh Purnima bath slated for February 12th. The inundation of devotees has been tough to manage for the Kumbh administration and local police alike as traffic snarls have affected regions beyond Prayagraj, even extending to nearby districts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Bihar.
Source: aajtak
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No Room at the Iconic Sangam
At the iconic Sangam, there isn't an inch to spare. Driven by a fervent wish for a holy dip, millions arrive daily at Prayagraj. Along roads leading to the revered Ganges ghats, a continuous stream of devotees is flowing, covering distances from a few kilometers to hundreds, leaving behind tales of relentless pedestrian journeys.
Prayagraj is grappling with such overwhelming numbers that managing the crowd is proving near impossible for both city and Kumbh authorities. Security has been bolstered with paramilitary forces deployed on most flyovers, yet the crowds keep swelling. This while pedestrians walk tirelessly for hours, striving to reach the Sangam, despite the designated area being a no-vehicle zone.
The sight of vehicles belonging to officials and VIPs in these zones is causing a stir among devotees. Although most VIPs, including national leader Droupadi Murmu, have already performed their ceremonial baths, it led to significant inconvenience due to the restrictions imposed by the administration. Despite most pontoon bridges being closed, over 142 million managed to bathe in a single day. The relentless influx of pilgrims attempting their journey into the heart of the Maha Kumbh leaves the city strained.
Source: aajtak
Reasons Behind the Swelling Crowds
Conversations with arriving pilgrims, police, administrators, and locals uncover several reasons for the prevailing chaos. Despite no let-up in daily visitors, the influx surged post-Prime Minister’s visit, with many opting for personal vehicles to reach Prayagraj. Once the Amrit Bath concluded, only 36 of the total 112 parking points remain active, causing further traffic issues.
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This explains the swarm of private vehicles headed to Prayagraj, which, combined with insufficient parking, results in extended traffic jams. Locals criticize the weakening of vehicle checks at Prayagraj’s borders, a lack of coordination between city police and those from neighboring districts, and guards unfamiliar with the geography. These factors collectively exacerbate the troubles pilgrims face when navigating these jam-packed roads.
With no forewarning about traffic congestion, incoming devotees add to the disorder, while VIP protocols create further gridlocks with barricades. The cumulative effect is seen for miles on end, with frustrations mounting among the stranded.
Amidst this crowding and gridlock, departing pilgrims suggest postponing visits until after the Maagh Purnima if possible, as undertaking a dip at the Maha Kumbh is not currently an easy task.
Source: aajtak
Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes the Government
Prayagraj's existing situation is tarnishing the city’s conditions, also resulting in severe traffic snarls in its neighboring districts. Vehicles from as far as Madhya Pradesh and Bihar remain immobilized, with over a million affected either immobilized or hindered in their journey. Amidst this turmoil, leaders like Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav are questioning governmental and administrative measures. He contends that those stuck in traffic are left to fend for themselves without any ministers or responsible leaders on the ground to address the issue.
The mass arrival of pilgrims has yet to inconvenience pedestrian visitors within the Kumbh area. However, the logistics for private vehicles remain problematic. Pilgrims are urged to consider public transport over personal vehicles. Moreover, the handful of external parking facilities should be optimized once more for better management.
