Kumbh Mela: Authorities impose ‘no vehicle zone’ from 4 p.m.

Maha Kumbh Mela imposes vehicle restrictions for Mahashivratri, urging devotees to follow guidelines for smooth movement.

The Maha Kumbh Mela area will be a no-vehicle zone from 4 p.m. on Tuesday (February 25, 2025), with the entire Prayagraj following suit from 6 p.m. onwards in view of the massive influx of devotees for the last special bathing date coinciding with Mahashivratri on February 26 (Wednesday).

Authorities have imposed these restrictions to ensure smooth crowd movement.

However, vehicles carrying essentials will be exempted, according to an official statement.

The administration has urged all visitors to comply with the guidelines and cooperate with officials, according to the statement issued by the Mela Police.

"Devotees should bathe only at the nearest designated ghats based on their entry points. Those arriving from the Dakshini Jhunsi route should use Arail Ghat, while those from the Uttari Jhunsi route should head to Harishchandra Ghat and Old GT Ghat. Pande Kshetra entrants have been directed to Bharadwaj Ghat, Nagavasuki Ghat, Mori Ghat, Kali Ghat, Ram Ghat, and Hanuman Ghat. Devotees coming through the Arail sector should use Arail Ghat for bathing," it stated.

"Essential services, including the transport of milk, vegetables, medicines, fuel, and emergency vehicles, will not be restricted. Government personnel such as doctors, police officers, and administrative staff will also have free movement," it added.

February 26 marks both the concluding snan of the Maha Kumbh Mela and the festival of Mahashivratri.