Prayagraj: In an unprecedented scene, a sea of vehicles stretched up to 300 kilometers, turning roads leading to the Maha Kumbh Mela into endless parking lots. Lakhs of pilgrims found themselves stranded for hours some even for two days as traffic restrictions and an overwhelming rush choked highways across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on Sunday.
Social media erupted with images of the chaos, with netizens calling it “probably the biggest traffic jam in the world.” Eyewitnesses reported gridlock across a 250-km stretch from Katni to the MP-UP border, with some covering only five kilometers in five hours.
“It is impossible to move towards Prayagraj today as the jam stretches 200-300 km,” police in Madhya Pradesh announced. Videos showed thousands of cars and trucks stuck across Katni, Jabalpur, Maihar, and Rewa districts.
To ease congestion, Madhya Pradesh police halted vehicles in multiple districts, urging travelers to seek shelter. “Traffic has been stopped till Monday,” Maihar Police announced, turning back vehicles toward Katni and Jabalpur.
With roads clogged, Prayagraj District Administration closed the city’s Raj Sangam railway station from February 9 to 14. “Regular and special trains will run from eight other stations,” officials said, directing passengers to alternative routes.
The sheer volume of pilgrims over 40 crore visitors has overwhelmed the region’s infrastructure. Rewa officials admitted that traffic pressure is relentless, as the flow of devotees toward Prayagraj remains constant. “Vehicles are lined up on both sides of the highway,” an official said.
Rewa Collector Pratibha Pal assured that food, water, and shelter were being arranged for those stuck in traffic. Meanwhile, MP BJP president VD Sharma urged party workers to assist pilgrims with food and accommodation.
Despite efforts, the jam showed no sign of easing. As lakhs continue their journey for the holy dip at the Sangam, authorities brace for further challenges in managing the world’s largest religious gathering.
