Maha Kumbh Mela gridlock: 300-km traffic jam strands lakhs of pilgrims; Oppn flays UP govt

SUPPLY OF ESSENTIALS DISRUPTED

- SHACHINDRA SHARMA

PRAYAGRAJ: The ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has led to severe traffic congestion as thousands of devotees flock to the Sangam for a holy dip. The influx of pilgrims began as early as 3 am, causing long traffic snarls on major roads leading to the city. Commuters are struggling to navigate the gridlocked streets, with many forced to walk several kilometres to reach their destinations.

A massive traffic jam, stretching up to 300 kilometres, has turned roads leading to the Maha Kumbh Mela into sprawling parking lots, leaving lakhs of pilgrims stranded. Described by some as the "world's biggest traffic jam," the congestion has severely impacted devotees travelling to Prayagraj via Madhya Pradesh. Reports indicate that the gridlock, spanning 200-300 kilometres, forced police to halt vehicles at multiple places, worsening delays for hours.

With Magh Purnima approaching, the pressure on roads has intensified. Key routes, including Fafamau, Jhunsi, Naini, and the Varanasi-Prayagraj stretch of GT Road (Sulem Sarai), have been choked with vehicles and pedestrians. The slow-moving traffic has significantly delayed travel times. "I have been walking for over three hours with my family because no vehicles are moving.

But reaching the Sangam is our ultimate goal," said Anand Mishra, a pilgrim from Varanasi.