Maha Kumbh 2025: 300-km Long Traffic Jam Strands Pilgrims for Hours
The Maha Kumbh 2025 has experienced one of the world’s largest traffic jams, with congestion extending up to 300 kilometers. Thousands of vehicles carrying pilgrims headed to Prayagraj via Madhya Pradesh were stranded for hours as traffic authorities struggled to manage the overwhelming influx.
Unprecedented Congestion Halts Vehicles
The massive traffic jam forced authorities in Madhya Pradesh to stop vehicles in several districts on Sunday. Reports indicate that roads from Katni, Jabalpur, Maihar, and Rewa were crowded with thousands of cars, buses, and trucks. In response to the situation, the police announced a halt to vehicular movement, urging travelers to seek safe shelter.
Eyewitness accounts describe traffic at a standstill across a 250-kilometer stretch from Katni to the Madhya Pradesh-Uttar Pradesh border at Chakghat in Rewa district. Many travelers took to social media to share their frustrations, calling it “probably the world’s biggest traffic jam.“
Stranded for Hours with Nowhere to Go
Commuters voiced their experiences online, with one traveler stating, “I moved about 5 kilometers in 5 hours; I should have been in Lucknow by now. I had to cancel my flight ticket and book another at double the cost.” Another user described the situation as a gridlock nightmare, with cars barely moving for miles.
Police and Administration Step In
To prevent further congestion at the MP-UP border, authorities halted vehicles in Katni and Jabalpur. The police in Maihar advised travelers to turn back and stay in safer areas like Katni and Jabalpur. Official reports suggest that some vehicles have been stuck for over 48 hours, with a 50-kilometer journey taking nearly 12 hours.
The Rewa district administration in Madhya Pradesh confirmed that the number of pilgrims heading to Prayagraj remains high, putting constant pressure on the highways. Efforts are being made to manage the situation, ensuring stranded travelers have access to food, water, and temporary accommodation.
Political Leaders Urge Support for Pilgrims
MP BJP President VD Sharma has encouraged party workers to assist the pilgrims passing through their areas. He emphasized the need for food, shelter, and medical assistance to prevent further hardships for the devotees.
Maha Kumbh 2025: A Historic Gathering
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13 and will conclude on February 26, has attracted over 400 million visitors from across India and the world. This spiritual event sees millions of devotees gathering for the sacred ‘Snan’ (holy dip) at the Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge.
As the traffic situation continues to evolve, authorities are coordinating with the Prayagraj administration to facilitate movement and ensure the safety of all travelers.
