National

Massive Influx of Pilgrims at Mahakumbh Causes Traffic Congestion in Prayagraj

Published

1 year ago

February 9, 2025

The Mahakumbh festival attracted a massive number of devotees on Sunday, resulting in significant traffic congestion at all entry points to Prayagraj. As per the Mela authorities, by 2 PM, approximately 1.09 crore pilgrims had taken a holy dip at the Sangam, despite heavy crowds at all riverbanks.

All routes leading to Sangam remained heavily congested, with vehicles stranded for distances of 10 to 15 kilometers for an extended period. The traffic jam spread throughout the city, prompting officials to initiate an Emergency Crowd Management Plan aimed at alleviating congestion around Prayagraj Junction.

Reports indicate that there was a long queue of vehicles extending 10-15 kilometers from Varanasi, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Rewa towards Prayagraj.

Earlier in the day, a fire broke out in Sector-19 of the Mahakumbh, damaging a Kalpwasi tent, but fire services quickly brought it under control. Meanwhile, even after the conclusion of the Amrit Snan festivals, the flow of devotees coming to Prayagraj for a sacred dip in the Sangam continues unabated.

In the 26 days since the beginning of Mahakumbh 2025, over 42 crore pilgrims have bathed in the Triveni Sangam.

With the increasing number of visitors from across India and abroad, the Prayagraj Railway has decided to extend its single-direction movement policy until further notice to facilitate smooth and safe rail travel. Under this arrangement, entry to Prayagraj Junction is restricted to the City Side via Platform No. 1, while exits will be directed through the Civil Lines area, utilizing Platforms 6 and 10.

According to Railway Division PRO Amit Singh, this initiative is designed to avoid congestion and enhance passenger flow.

To improve the travel experience, colour-coded tickets and designated shelter slots have been introduced. These shelters are categorized by passenger destinations and come equipped with temporary ticket counters, restrooms, and waiting areas. Additionally, passengers with reserved tickets can enter through Gate No. 5.

Travelers are advised to arrive well in advance of their scheduled train departures. In cooperation with local police, taxi, auto, and e-rickshaw drivers are encouraged to follow the single-direction plan to minimize traffic congestion and ensure smooth transit for pilgrims.

National

Jammu University Introduces Fuel-Saving Measures

Published

24 hours ago

May 14, 2026

Namma Kudla

National : The University of Jammu has announced several fuel-saving measures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation. Vice-Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai said the university has decided to conduct all PhD viva voce examinations online to reduce travel and save fuel.

The university will also prefer virtual speakers for national and international conferences. In another step, the Academic Council meeting planned in Poonch has been shifted to the Jammu University campus to avoid unnecessary travel.

Prof Rai said the measures will help save fuel, time and resources. He also encouraged university staff to use bicycles and carpool while travelling to the campus.

National

One Year On: Pahalgam Attack Still Haunts the Nation

Published

3 weeks ago

April 21, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: One year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the nation remembers the 26 people who lost their lives. The attack took place on April 22 at Baisaran, a popular tourist spot.

At first, reports said only five people were injured. Later, it became clear that it was one of the worst terror attacks in the region in decades. Terrorists came out of the forest and opened fire on tourists.

Survivors said the attackers separated men from women and children. They then shot the men at close range. Many victims were reportedly targeted after being asked about their religion.

A heartbreaking image of Himanshi Narwal sitting beside her husband’s body became a symbol of the tragedy. Her husband, a naval officer, was among those killed.

The group The Resistance front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency.

After months of tracking, security forces launched Operation Mahadev. On July 28, 2025, all three terrorists were killed after a long search operation.

The attack remains a painful memory and a reminder of the need for strong security.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.