Mahakumbh 2025: Fair Area Declared a No-Vehicle Zone, Massive Traffic Jams Reported
The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj is witnessing an unprecedented influx of devotees from across the country. However, following a stampede that occurred around 1 AM during the Mauni Amavasya Amrit Snan festival, authorities have implemented strict measures to manage the crowd and ensure safety. The entire fair area has now been declared a no-vehicle zone, leading to major traffic disruptions in and around the city.
Traffic Restrictions Enforced Following Stampede Incident
In response to the tragic stampede, the administration has issued a new directive, prohibiting all vehicles from entering the fairgrounds until February 4. This includes both four-wheelers and two-wheelers, except for emergency medical services and administrative vehicles. The decision aims to prevent congestion and allow smooth pedestrian movement inside the fairgrounds.
As a result of these measures, vehicles have been stopped outside the city borders, causing significant traffic congestion on major entry points leading to Prayagraj. Major bottlenecks have emerged in areas such as:
- Andawa Ring Road Bypass
- Gauhania
- Nawabganj
- Soraon
- Chitrakoot Road
Traffic Gridlock Intensifies at City Borders
With vehicles being halted at district borders, long queues of cars, buses, and trucks have formed, particularly along Varanasi Road near Andawan. Several commuters have been stranded for hours, leading to frustration and difficulties for pilgrims trying to reach the sacred site.
The administration has also hinted that if crowd pressure increases further, even pass-holding vehicles may be restricted from entering the fair zone.
