A massive traffic jam stretching up to 300 kilometers on roads leading to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has left lakhs of pilgrims stranded for hours. Described by netizens as the “world’s biggest traffic jam,” the congestion has caused major disruptions for devotees traveling from Madhya Pradesh (MP).
The unprecedented gridlock prompted Madhya Pradesh police to halt vehicle movement in multiple districts, including Katni, Jabalpur, Maihar, and Rewa, on Sunday. Authorities advised people to find safe shelter while they managed the crisis.
Traffic Chaos and Road Closures
The massive rush of pilgrims to Prayagraj resulted in extreme congestion on the Rewa-Prayagraj highway. To prevent overcrowding, police officials stopped vehicles at multiple locations, particularly at the MP-UP border near Chakghat in Rewa district.
In several areas, vehicles remained stuck for over 48 hours, with reports suggesting that travelers were covering just 50 km in nearly 10-12 hours. Social media was flooded with complaints from stranded passengers.
One commuter wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
"Moved ~5 kms in 5 hours. By now, I should have reached Lucknow. Terrible traffic management, had to cancel my flight and rebook at double the price."
Another user posted:
"Traffic jam of 15 km before Jabalpur… Still 400 km to Prayagraj. Please check traffic updates before heading to Maha Kumbh!"
Police and Administration’s Response
Rewa Inspector General (IG) Saket Prakash Pandey acknowledged the crisis, stating that the Sunday rush caused severe bottlenecks. However, he assured that the situation would gradually ease in the coming days.
Rewa District Collector Pratibha Pal confirmed that they are in constant coordination with the Prayagraj administration.
"The sheer number of pilgrims traveling has not decreased, leading to continuous traffic pressure. Arrangements are being made for safe stay, food, and water for those stuck," she said.
Police vehicles in Katni and Maihar districts have been making announcements, asking travelers to return to safer locations such as Katni and Jabalpur to avoid further congestion.
Meanwhile, MP BJP President VD Sharma urged party workers to assist pilgrims by providing food and shelter wherever possible.
Maha Kumbh Mela Draws Record-Breaking Crowd
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, which began on January 13 and will conclude on February 26, has attracted over 40 crore devotees from India and abroad. Pilgrims travel to Prayagraj to take part in the sacred ‘Snan’ (holy dip) at the Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet.
Authorities continue working to manage the unprecedented crowd, but with more key bathing dates approaching, traffic concerns remain a major challenge for the administration.
