Traffic gridlock sparks political firestorm

Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav trade barbs over handling of traffic congestion

- HT Correspondent

LUCKNOW: A war of words has erupted between Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya over the handling of traffic congestion and arrangements for devotees flocking to Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh.

Akhilesh Yadav on Monday alleged that the government had failed to assist those stranded in traffic for hours. "People stuck in the traffic jam are imprisoned in their vehicles for hours. Women have no place to meet their daily needs, and devotees have lost contact with their families due to drained mobile batteries," the former chief minister wrote on X.

Without naming Maurya, he alleged that neither the chief minister nor key ministers from Prayagraj were present on the ground. "Orders are being issued from air-conditioned rooms, but no responsible official is seen controlling the situation. Even constables and sanitation workers, who are tirelessly performing their duties, are left hungry and thirsty," he added.

He further criticised the government, stating that residents of Prayagraj were burdened with filth, traffic congestion, and rising costs. "The BJP is now blaming devotees, questioning why they are coming despite the mismanagement," Yadav remarked.