Surge in Traffic at Madhya Pradesh-Uttar Pradesh Border as Devotees Flock to Prayagraj
The number of vehicles heading towards Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh 2025 has significantly increased, particularly at the Chakghat border in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district. Officials report that nearly 1,000 vehicles per hour are moving towards Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, while around 800 vehicles per hour are returning.
Prayagraj, which is 45 kilometers from the Chakghat border, is experiencing a continuous flow of devotees. The administration has ramped up efforts to ensure smooth traffic movement and prevent congestion on the major connecting routes.
First Parking Facility Set Up Near Madhya Pradesh-Uttar Pradesh Border
To manage the heavy influx of vehicles, officials have established the first designated parking area for Maha Kumbh-bound pilgrims just six kilometers from the Chakghat border in Uttar Pradesh. These "holding areas" serve as waiting zones, where vehicles can halt before entering the main pilgrimage site.
Furthermore, dedicated assistance centers have been established at strategic locations to provide pilgrims with guidance, transportation options, and emergency support. The administration is committed to mitigating traffic congestion and facilitating a smooth travel experience for worshippers.
Traffic Volume Increases on National Highway 30
The surge in pilgrims has resulted in a significant increase in vehicle movement on National Highway 30, the primary route connecting Madhya Pradesh to Prayagraj. The weekend rush has further escalated traffic, as more devotees prefer to travel on holidays to participate in the religious gathering.
According to Inspector General of Police, Rewa Range, Saket Prakash Pandey, authorities are actively monitoring the situation. “As of now, we are not stopping vehicles at Bela, Gangev, and Chakghat holding points, but the police and administration are on high alert,” he stated.
Despite the increased traffic, officials confirm that no major traffic jams have occurred so far, though crowd management measures are being strictly enforced.
Prayagraj Declared a No-Vehicle Zone
To accommodate the massive footfall, the Maha Kumbh fairgrounds and Prayagraj city have been declared no-vehicle zones. This means that vehicles will not be allowed inside the main pilgrimage area, and devotees will need to park at designated zones and use shuttle services, rickshaws, or walk to reach the sacred Sangam.
Authorities have implemented special traffic diversion plans to regulate vehicle movement and avoid congestion in and around the Maha Kumbh site.
Police and Administration on High Alert
With the rising number of pilgrims, law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to manage traffic and ensure public safety. According to Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) Udit Mishra, additional police personnel have been deployed at crucial points to monitor the situation.
“The number of vehicles heading toward Prayagraj has significantly increased due to the weekend rush, but we have made the necessary arrangements. Holding areas have been improved, and help centers have been enhanced to assist devotees,” said Mishra.
To further streamline traffic management, additional holding areas have been set up in Maihar, Katni, and Satna districts of Madhya Pradesh, allowing authorities to control the flow of vehicles before they reach Prayagraj.
Lessons from Past Traffic Jams
Earlier this month, the 250-kilometer stretch from Katni to the Uttar Pradesh border experienced heavy traffic congestion due to the influx of pilgrims. This prompted officials to revise their traffic management strategy and implement new measures to prevent similar issues.
Authorities have now introduced strict vehicle regulations, alternative routes, and designated parking zones to ensure that Maha Kumbh-bound devotees face minimal travel disruptions.
The World's Largest Religious Gathering
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which commenced on January 13, 2025, and will conclude on February 26, 2025, is one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world. Millions of devotees participate in the event to take a holy dip in the Ganges at Prayagraj, which is believed to cleanse sins and lead to spiritual liberation.
