Massive crowd at Kumbha Kshetra despite no upcoming Amrut Snan

Administration attempting to control the influx of devotees

Prayagraj, 8.2.2025 – Since 7th February, the number of devotees arriving at Maha Kumbha Kshetra for holy bathing has surged once again. The influx is so high that vehicles entering the Kumbha area are moving at a snail’s pace. Devotees are taking several hours to cover even a kilometre. Considering the overwhelming crowd, administration officials are trying to stop devotees outside Prayagraj. Given the current situation, estimates suggest that the total number of pilgrims bathing in the Sangam during Maha Kumbha could exceed 50 crore.

From the morning of 8th February, administrative announcements through loudspeakers across the Kumbha Kshetra have been instructing devotees to vacate the ghats after bathing. Police are urging pilgrims not to linger unnecessarily at the ghats after their rituals.

After the stampede incident on Maghi Amavasya, the inflow of devotees had slightly decreased; however, since Amrit Parva (post-Vasant Panchami), devotees are flocking to Prayagraj in large numbers, contrary to expectations of a reduced crowd.

Apart from Prayagraj, devotees are also visiting nearby religious sites such as Ayodhya and Varanasi, as well as Mathura, over 500 km away. As a result, these holy places are witnessing a surge in crowds as well.

Traffic congestion & administrative challenges

Managing the crowd has become extremely difficult for the Police. Over the past 24 hours, traffic congestion has worsened on the outer roads of Kumbha Kshetra. Heavy traffic has been reported on the Shastri Bridge over the Ganga since last night, causing major delays.

Pilgrims travelling in four-wheelers are facing severe difficulties due to the heavy rush. In an effort to manage crowd movement, the administration has kept some pontoon bridges operational for devotees.