Maghi Purnima Snan today, traffic curbs reimposed

Briefly relaxed after the Basant Panchami Snan rush on February 5, the plan has been reimposed following directives from CM to ensure the safety of devotees

- HT Correspondent

MAHAKUMBH NAGAR: With the influx of pilgrims surging ahead of the Maghi Purnima bathing festival on February 12 at Mahakumbh-2025 and roads leading to Prayagraj choked with vehicles, the Mela authority has reinstated a special traffic plan.

Briefly relaxed after the Basant Panchami Snan rush on February 5, the plan has been reimposed following directives from chief minister Yogi Adityanath to ensure the smooth movement and safety of devotees.

As part of the plan, the entire Mela area has been declared a 'No Vehicle Zone' from 4 am on February 11, 2025, allowing entry only for essential and emergency service vehicles, Mela officials confirmed.

All private and public vehicles arriving in Prayagraj on February 11 after 4 am are being directed to designated parking areas along their respective routes. This measure aims to prevent traffic congestion in the city and allow pilgrims to reach the bathing ghats conveniently on foot, they added.

Additionally, from 5 pm on February 11, the 'No Vehicle Zone' has been expanded to cover the entire Prayagraj city. Only emergency services will be exempt from this regulation, officials clarified.

This special traffic plan will remain in effect until the completion of the Maghi Purnima Snan on February 12, ensuring the safe departure of pilgrims from the fairgrounds.

The same rules will also apply to vehicles of devotees observing Kalpavas. The administration has urged all Kalpavasis to comply with the guidelines and use only authorised parking facilities.

Authorities have also appealed to visitors to follow traffic regulations and cooperate with officials to ensure a seamless and orderly bathing festival at the Mahakumbh.

Special parking arrangements A total of 36 parking sites have been designated along all routes for vehicles coming to Mahakumbh. Devotees will park their vehicles at these designated spots and proceed to Sangam for bathing on foot.