Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India]: In preparation for the Magh Purnima Snan at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj on February 12, the administration has declared the area a ‘No Vehicle Zone’ to manage the massive influx of devotees.
All private and public vehicles of devotees will be parked in designated parking lots along respective routes. Additionally, a ban has been imposed on vehicles of Kalpavasis (devotees residing in tents during the festival).
To ensure smooth movement and safety, only essential and emergency services will be permitted inside the area. The special traffic plan will be enforced from 5 p.m. today and will remain in effect until the end of February 12.
The administration has urged devotees to adhere to traffic guidelines for a hassle-free experience during the sacred bathing ritual.
Railways Ensure Seamless Travel for Devotees
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on February 10 assured that Indian Railways has made comprehensive arrangements at eight railway stations to accommodate the large gathering of pilgrims at Mahakumbh.
While inspecting facilities at Prayagraj Railway Station, Vaishnaw stated:
“Railways has taken care of all the arrangements at 8 railway stations for Prayagraj Mahakumbh. Everything is being done in coordination with the state administration. Yesterday, 330 trains departed from Prayagraj Junction, and even today, trains are running in an orderly manner. If someone tries to spread rumors, we won’t listen to them. Everything is going on systematically.”
High-Security Measures in Place
Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of the Information & Publicity Department, Railway Board, highlighted the enhanced security arrangements, stating:
- Over 13,000 railway personnel have been deployed across various stations in the Sangam Kshetra.
- Special trains are being operated as needed to manage the heavy rush.
- On February 10 alone, 12.5 lakh devotees traveled in 330 trains.
- More than 140 trains have already been operated today to handle the crowd.
- 1,200 CCTV cameras have been installed at key points for real-time monitoring.
- Surveillance is being conducted at five different levels, with control rooms at all stations monitoring the live feed.
- Advanced AI-based face-recognition technology has been deployed for added security.
With these comprehensive traffic and railway measures, authorities aim to ensure a safe, secure, and well-organized Magh Purnima Snan for all devotees.