Vijayawada is currently experiencing an extraordinary surge in visitors as thousands of devotees pour into the city from across the state. They’ve come to partake in the sacred ‘Moola Nakshatram’ celebrations, eagerly awaiting a glimpse of Goddess Kanaka Durga. This auspicious occasion, marking the birth star of Goddess Saraswati Devi, has transformed major transportation hubs like the Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) and the railway station into bustling centers of activity since Sunday.
The sheer volume of pilgrims, combined with many students traveling home for Dasara festivities, has led to significant traffic congestion. Key arterial roads and junctions leading to the revered Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam are experiencing severe snarls. The recently introduced ‘Stree Sakthi’ free bus travel scheme for women has further ensured that APSRTC buses are operating at maximum capacity. Witnessing jam-packed platforms at PNBS and slow-moving traffic on national highways connecting Vijayawada to Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, officials have been swift to act.
To mitigate the widespread inconvenience caused by heavy traffic at hotspots like Krishnalanka, Patamata, and Benz Circle, authorities have implemented a series of traffic diversions and designated ‘No Vehicle Zones’ effective from Monday. These stringent measures are also in preparation for Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s high-profile visit to Indrakeeladri for ‘Moola Nakshatram.’ Police have confirmed that all vehicles will be rerouted at strategic points including PNBS in-gate, Kummaripalem Centre, Tadepalli checkpost, and Gadda Bomma Centre. Access to the Kanaka Durga temple will be completely restricted for vehicles from Sunday 7:30 p.m. until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 30, ensuring both safety and smooth management of the massive crowd.