President Droupadi Murmu visited the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj today, where she took a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Triveni Sangam. This visit comes over a week after a stampede during 'Mouni Amavasya' claimed the lives of about 30 devotees. Despite the tragic incident, President Murmu's visit marks a significant moment during the ongoing religious festival.
President’s visit and security arrangements
The president was helped by security guards as she walked on a floating platform to reach the Sangam. Once she got to the ramp, she carefully walked down and took the holy dip in the water. This visit comes after the tragic stampede during the 'Mouni Amavasya,' when many people gathered early in the morning to bathe in the Sangam. The president arrived in Prayagraj earlier in the day, along with the governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel, and the chief minister, Yogi Adityanath.
During her visit, President Murmu will also pray at the Bade Hanuman Temple and the Akshayavat tree. Both are very important in Hinduism. The Akshayavat tree is believed to represent immortality, meaning it is a symbol of never-ending life.
Traffic jams and security measures in Prayagraj
The Sangam, where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati meet, is a very important place for Hindus. The president's visit is seen as a special event, as many famous political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have already visited the Sangam during the Maha Kumbh festival.
To make sure everything is safe, there are strict security measures in place in Prayagraj. However, there have been heavy traffic jams on roads leading to the city. In nearby states like Madhya Pradesh, the police have stopped vehicles at some points. Traffic near Prayagraj Junction and the Sangam railway station has also been affected, with a one-way system being set up to control the flow of vehicles.
Since the start of the Maha Kumbh last month, over 44 crore pilgrims have visited and taken a dip in the Sangam, marking the significance of this spiritual gathering.
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