Final Dip Rush Causes 25 km Traffic Gridlock at Maha Kumbh 2025
Mahakumbh Nagar(The Uttam Hindu): The grand finale of the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh is fast approaching, with the last sacred bath scheduled for 26th February, coinciding with Mahashivratri. As the fair nears its end, a massive influx of devotees is flocking to the banks of the Sangam for one final holy dip, leading to overwhelming crowds and traffic chaos. Traffic jams stretch over 25 km as personal vehicles flood the roads, causing vehicles to crawl at a snail's pace. The sheer volume of devotees, especially on the last weekend before the fair ends, has created significant congestion. On Sunday, 23rd February, the number of pilgrims surged as many sought to bathe in the sacred waters before the Kumbh concluded.
The situation has proven especially difficult for the elderly, children, and women, who are bearing the brunt of the traffic mayhem. However, the police are on high alert to manage the crowd and ensure smooth passage for the pilgrims. Authorities, including IG Prem Gautam, SP Brijesh Kumar Srivastava, and ASP Rajesh Singh, have deployed a robust police presence. To control traffic and maintain safety, drones are being used to monitor the highway.
Diversion Plans & Parking Solutions
To ease the chaos, a diversion plan has been put into action. Vehicles are being directed away from the Kokhraj bypass towards Phaphamau Bela Kachhar parking, ensuring that devotees can quickly and safely reach the Kumbh. Special parking arrangements have been made to accommodate the flood of vehicles.
The administration has been proactive, with authorities working tirelessly to keep the situation under control. The total number of devotees who have already bathed at the Kumbh has surpassed an astounding 60 crore. This reflects the spiritual magnetism of the event, as well as the favourable environment created for the pilgrims. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised the incredible turnout, stating that the vast number of devotees taking part in the Maha Kumbh is a direct result of the "auspicious atmosphere" in Prayagraj, making this year's event one of the largest gatherings of faith in the world.
With just days remaining until the final bath, the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh 2025 is shaping up to be a historic moment of devotion, despite the challenges posed by the massive crowds and traffic.
