Kumbh-Bound Rush Overwhelms UP Cities, Railways on High Alert Following Delhi Stampede
Prayagraj and neighboring cities in Uttar Pradesh are experiencing an unprecedented surge in traffic as massive crowds continue to arrive for the ongoing Maha Kumbh. With over 50 crore devotees having visited since the pilgrimage began last month, the influx of visitors has led to severe congestion on roads and railway stations, prompting authorities to heighten security and crowd management measures—especially in the wake of the recent Delhi railway station stampede.
Severe Traffic Congestion in Prayagraj and Neighboring Regions
Key locations in Prayagraj, including Balsan, Bairhana, Sobtiabagh, and Darbhanga, are facing extreme gridlocks, with short 15-minute commutes stretching to nearly three hours. The heavy influx of pilgrims has also significantly impacted vehicular movement in Madhya Pradesh’s Rewa, which shares a border with Uttar Pradesh.
Despite the completion of three major ‘Amrit Snans’ (holy dips) on Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, and Basant Panchami, the number of visitors continues to rise, overwhelming transportation networks. Thousands of vehicles remain stuck on highways leading to Prayagraj, slowing traffic flow across state borders. Local commuters and emergency services are struggling due to roadblocks and delays, adding to the logistical challenges.
Railway Stations on High Alert Post Delhi Stampede
The Delhi railway station stampede, which claimed 18 lives, has heightened concerns over crowd safety at major transit hubs in Uttar Pradesh. Given the massive rush of Kumbh-bound pilgrims, railway stations in Prayagraj, Varanasi, Kanpur, and Lucknow are now on high security alert.
Key Measures Taken by Railway Authorities:
Deployment of Additional Security Forces Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) have been instructed to manage and regulate passenger movement at overcrowded stations. Increased Platform Surveillance Authorities are monitoring CCTV footage and deploying crowd-control teams to ensure safety. Announcements & Special Assistance Public announcements are being made to guide passengers and prevent panic situations. Extra Trains & Coaches The Indian Railways is considering adding special trains and increasing the number of coaches on key routes to accommodate the rising demand.
Challenges Ahead: Managing the Continuing Rush
With the Maha Kumbh set to continue for weeks, authorities are bracing for further surges in crowds, particularly during upcoming auspicious bathing days. Despite multiple contingency measures, the sheer scale of pilgrim movement poses a significant challenge to traffic management, railway operations, and public safety.
UP government and railway authorities are coordinating efforts to streamline passenger movement. Local administration has urged devotees to plan their travel carefully to avoid peak congestion hours. Emergency response teams remain on standby to handle any unforeseen incidents.
