Some of theDelhi Metrostations saw chaos and panic on Thursday (April 23) as people were seen desperately entering the metro coaches at several metro stations in the Rohini Area when the entry was restricted due to a heavy rush of devotees returning from a private event of a religious preacher. The event was a retelling of the Mahashivapurana Katha, told by Pradeep Mishra. The six-day katha began on April 17 and concluded on Thursday.

Hundreds lined up at both entry gates of Ithala Metro Station, only to be stopped by the CISF personnel using ropes. "There is a massive rush inside. Wait for some time," a member of the force told the queuing crowd.

A similar scene was witnessed at the next two stations on the Red Line, with the CISF restricting the entry of commuters.

Footpaths teemed with devotees walking under a scorching sun all along the stretch from till Madhuban Chowk. Metro premises turned into a sea of bobbing heads; road traffic came to a standstill for around a 2 km-stretch on either side.

The DMRC refused to comment when asked about it, PTI reported. A personnel from the Delhi Traffic Police said they are looking to divert traffic and the situation will improve soon. Poonam Devi, 55, said she did not expect it to be so crowded.

"Police are saying that there is a rush inside the metro station and told us to wait. It's so hot. I will not come again. It's better to watch it on TV," said the Mehrauli resident.

This is not the first time that an event of Mishra has led to snarls or other woes.

Earlier in April last year, a stampede broke out at a katha event of Mishra in Rajasthan's Ratangarh amid a storm. At least three people were wounded in the incident and authorities were forced to cancel the event as they claimed it was held without permission.

A seven-day traffic diversion was effected in Pune in February because of a katha event by Mishra. In March, a major snarl struck Jaipur due to another six-day event by him, which preceded the traffic diversion.

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