Massive crowd at Prayagraj Junction, Police struggle to maintain control

Devotees are forced to walk over 4 kilometres as main routes are closed

Huge rush of passengers heading towards Prayagraj Junction

Prayagraj, 17 February – The number of devotees arriving at and departing from Maha Kumbha Mela has surged drastically. Due to this, the crowd at Prayagraj Junction railway station has become overwhelming, making it difficult for the Police to manage the situation. To prevent accidents, the regular main road leading to Prayagraj Junction has been closed, along with vehicular traffic on that route. As a result, devotees are taking up to four hours to reach the railway station.

Considering the massive influx of devotees, the Police have stopped private and public transport a few kilometres away from the railway station. This has forced devotees to carry their luggage and walk more than 4 kilometres to reach Prayagraj Junction. While resting areas, sanitation facilities, and drinking water arrangements have been provided along the modified route, devotees were not informed in advance about this change. Many travellers, unaware of the situation, are facing extreme difficulties while carrying their belongings.

Trains missed due to lack of prior notification about route changes

Although the administration implemented this measure to prevent accidents, neither the state government nor the railway authorities issued any prior notifications or installed information boards along the route. As a result, devotees are now required to leave at least 4-5 hours in advance to reach their trains. However, due to a lack of awareness about this change, many travellers have missed their trains.