Mauni Amavasya crowds throw Prayagraj travel into chaos
On Sunday, January 18, 2026, Prayagraj's Magh Mela 2026 drew massive crowds for Mauni Amavasya, and the city's transport just couldn't keep up.
Trains ran two to six hours late, flights were delayed, and traffic on NH-19 crawled for hours—thanks to the sheer numbers of people heading in.
Delays, complaints, and overwhelmed infrastructure
Passengers stuck on trains like the Prayagraj Express (four hours late) and Humsafar Express (almost six hours late) faced difficulties in accessing food, drinking water and seating arrangements—many vented their frustration online.
Flights from Mumbai and Delhi also saw delays, with the Mumbai flight significantly delayed.
Even with 394 special trains added earlier this month, the system was stretched thin by the festival rush.
For anyone traveling in or out of Prayagraj this weekend: patience was definitely required.