- Rewa-Prayagraj highway choked for hours
Rewa/Chakghat- The administration’s discriminatory approach towards pilgrims heading to the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj has left many stranded and frustrated. Despite grand promotions by the Central and Uttar Pradesh governments, enticing every Sanatani to take a holy dip, the ground reality is nothing short of chaos and mismanagement.
With decades of experience in hosting the Kumbh, one would expect a flawless system, but instead, the administration seems to have turned a blind eye. Even after repeated warnings about the massive influx of devotees, the officials failed to create a seamless transport plan, forcing thousands to endure miles-long treks just to reach the sacred Ganga.
Selective entry: A tale of two number plates
The biggest shock? Discrimination based on vehicle registration plates. Pilgrims traveling in UP-70 registered vehicles enjoy unhindered access, while those from neighboring states like Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are mercilessly turned away, even with valid passes.
Despite hours-long jams on National Highway-30, the administration has conveniently ignored the suffering of women, children, and elderly travelers. No parking spaces, no emergency facilities—just a merciless blockade forcing people to walk over 30 kilometers to fulfill their spiritual journey.
Mismanagement at its peak
Since February 6, the Rewa-Prayagraj route has been choked for over 7-8 hours daily, with no sign of relief. The administration’s short-sightedness has reduced the holy Kumbh experience into a grueling endurance test. While some glide in without hassle, others are left questioning: Is Kumbh Mela only for a privileged few?