Elderly people, women, and children are facing a tough time reaching Sangam for a holy dip. The journey feels as challenging as trekking the seven hills in Tirupati or visiting the Sabarimala temple.
Once devotees arrive at Prayagraj railway stations or temporary bus stops, they must walk between 15 to 30 kilometers to reach Sangam Dwar, the entry point for the holy dip. A group of 85 people from Nepal, including elderly individuals, arrived at Prayagraj Railway Junction. They were told transport was available nearby, but they struggled to find it, repeatedly asking police officers and officials for directions.
This situation is common for many pilgrims arriving at the railway stations. They must first walk four to five kilometers before being asked to take a diversion onto CY Chintamani Street. From there, they walk another six to seven kilometers to reach the George Town junction, followed by another five kilometers to finally reach the Sangam Dwar.
After taking a holy dip at Sangam Ghat, the return journey is just as difficult. The crowd is redirected near a Road Over Bridge (RoB) close to Sabzi Mandi. However, the real struggle begins there, as the limited number of e-rickshaws is not enough for the vast number of people trying to get back to the railway stations.
Auto drivers take advantage of the situation, charging very high rates, similar to SUV fares, per kilometer. People desperate to secure transport often outbid each other, turning the process into a competitive auction. Whoever offers the highest fare gets a ride on the e-rickshaws.
Traffic police and transport officials are nowhere to be seen. The police officers present are helpful in guiding devotees, but they are unable to stop the overcharging by e-rickshaw drivers.
Additionally, young men on bikes offer rides to pilgrims from Sabzi Mandi to Civil Lines Bus Stand, the railway station, Naini Ghat, and other locations. Although their rates are negotiable, many people feel exploited by the high prices.
Nikitha and Ashrit, visitors from Delhi, shared their frustration, saying that overcharging has become a common practice. Priti, a local resident, was seen arguing with a biker at Civil Lines Bus Station. She accused him of taking advantage of devotees, saying, “Instead of helping people, you are looting them and ruining Prayagraj’s reputation. The fare should not be more than Rs 200, so how can you demand Rs 500?”
The biker, afraid of attracting police attention, pleaded with her to lower her voice, fearing action against him. The situation highlights the transportation struggles pilgrims face during the Maha Kumbh.
