Thousands of devotees traveling to the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj are facing severe traffic congestion, with reports indicating that vehicles are stuck for up to 48 hours. The traffic jam, stretching nearly 300 kilometers, has left many stranded on highways leading to the holy site.

Following the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami, there were expectations of a reduced crowd. However, the influx of pilgrims has continued to surge, worsening traffic conditions.

A motorist speaking to NDTV suggested that navigation apps, which direct multiple travelers through the same routes, could be a contributing factor. He noted that he managed to return from Prayagraj to Lucknow in five hours without issues. “I am on the correct route and reaching Lucknow smoothly. Many travelers might not have planned their journeys well and are taking only one route when multiple alternatives are available,” he explained.

Struggling to control the heavy traffic, police in several districts of Madhya Pradesh have halted vehicle movement on certain routes to Prayagraj. “Traveling towards Prayagraj today is nearly impossible due to a traffic jam spanning 200-300 kilometers,” authorities stated.

Inspector General of Police (Rewa zone), Saket Prakash Pandey, attributed the congestion to the weekend rush. He assured that the situation would improve in the coming days and mentioned that vehicle entry is being regulated in coordination with the Prayagraj administration.

Reports indicate that some vehicles are taking 10-12 hours to cover just 50 kilometers. A commuter stuck in traffic described the ordeal, saying, “People claim vehicles have been immobile for 48 hours. The journey has become extremely slow and frustrating.”

Traffic jams of up to 25 kilometers have been observed on routes from Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kanpur leading to Prayagraj. Within the city itself, the massive gathering has resulted in congestion stretching around seven kilometers, adding to the commuters’ woes.