Maha Kumbh 2025: Devotees express outrage over VIP traffic disruptions ahead of Mauni Amavasya

Maha Kumbh 2025: This monumental spiritual event in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is drawing millions of devotees to the sacred Triveni Sangam. However, the gathering has been marred by significant criticism due to the disruptions caused by VIP movements, which have transformed what should be a peaceful time of devotion into a chaotic experience for many pilgrims.

Disruption and Frustration Among Pilgrims

Numerous videos circulating on social media depict the frustration of devotees as they navigate through restricted access areas designed to accommodate dignitaries. Roads leading to the Sangam have been divided, with one side congested with pilgrims while the other is cleared for VIPs.

VIP व्यवस्था क्या सिर्फ़ भाजपा वालों के लिए हैं क्या? आम जनता को भी VIP व्यवस्था मिलनी चाहिए ताकि जनता अपनी गाड़ी से सीधे घाट पे पहुंच जाएं।@myogiadityanath @myogioffice @BJP4UP @prayagraj_pol @DM_PRAYAGRAJ @MahaaKumbh pic.twitter.com/jA7Vn3z2xt

— Robert Yadav (@RobertYadavINC) January 27, 2025

This stark contrast has ignited outrage among attendees, leading many to criticize the Uttar Pradesh government for its inadequate crowd management strategies.

Akhilesh Yadav's Call for Change

In response to the ongoing issues, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has publicly expressed his discontent. Sharing footage of the crowded scenes, he urged the administration to prioritize the needs of pilgrims over VIP arrangements. “The government should ensure smooth transport for pilgrims instead of creating difficulties due to VIP protocols.

The Maha Kumbh should be about special arrangements for the devotees, not the dignitaries,” Yadav stated on X.He further stressed that this event should embody a spirit of service rather than self-promotion, advocating for improved facilities for both pilgrims and officials working diligently to manage the event.

Government Measures Amid Challenges

Despite these challenges, the Uttar Pradesh government has implemented several measures to manage the anticipated massive turnout. With Mauni Amavasya on January 29 expected to attract between 8 and 10 crore devotees, VIP protocols will be suspended that day to ensure equal access for all participants.To facilitate pedestrian movement, the government has declared a no-vehicle zone from January 27-30.

Additionally, over 50,000 police personnel and 2,750 AI-based CCTV cameras have been deployed for enhanced security. Furthermore, 150 special trains are operating to streamline pilgrim transit.The Maha Kumbh commenced on January 14, 2025, and has already seen an overwhelming turnout of over 10 crore devotees within just a week, including approximately 3.5 crore on Makar Sankranti.