Akhilesh Yadav slams UP Govt over Maha Kumbh traffic chaos, calls for better management

Severe Congestion Disrupts Supply of Essentials, Devotees Face Hardships

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday criticized the Uttar Pradesh government over the severe traffic congestion in Prayagraj, which he claimed has led to a shortage of essential commodities and immense difficulties for devotees attending the Maha Kumbh Mela.

“Due to traffic jams everywhere in Prayagraj, neither food grains, vegetables, nor medicines, petrol, or diesel are available. The condition of crores of hungry, thirsty, and exhausted devotees stranded in Prayagraj and Maha Kumbh premises is worsening by the hour. This is a very serious situation,” Yadav stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

He also shared a video of people voicing their grievances, highlighting the chaotic conditions affecting pilgrims and residents alike.

Calls for Better Governance

Lashing out at the government’s handling of the Kumbh Mela arrangements, Yadav suggested that capable leadership should be assigned to manage the situation effectively.

“When a constitutional system fails in states, the command is handed over to someone else. Seeing the chaos at Maha Kumbh, a competent person should be given governance responsibilities. Incompetent officials can spread false propaganda, but they cannot establish an efficient system,” he added.

Massive Pilgrim Turnout Amid Logistical Challenges

According to official reports, a staggering 46.19 lakh people, including 10 lakh Kalpvasis, had taken a dip in the Triveni Sangam by 8 AM on Monday. Since the start of the Maha Kumbh Mela last month, the event has witnessed over 44 crore pilgrims performing the holy ritual.

Despite the spiritual significance of the gathering, concerns over traffic congestion, supply shortages, and mismanagement continue to grow, prompting demands for urgent remedial action from the administration.