A tragic stampede occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj on the morning of January 29, 2025, during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya. The massive gathering led to chaos, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
At least 15 people lost their lives, while several others were injured in the incident. Initially, reports suggested over 10 fatalities, but later updates confirmed the death toll at 15. Emergency services responded immediately, with ambulances rushing the injured to the central hospital within the Mela grounds for urgent treatment.
Authorities’ Response
The administration acted swiftly to control the situation and enforce crowd management measures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke twice with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to assess the situation and ensure prompt support.
Impact on Religious Events
Following the tragedy, the Akharas postponed the Amrit Snan programme, prioritizing safety and crowd control. Prominent spiritual leaders, including Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya Ji and Devkinandan Thakur, urged devotees to avoid the Sangam Ghat due to overwhelming crowds.
Lessons from the Incident
The incident highlights the challenges of managing large religious gatherings and the importance of crowd control and emergency response systems to ensure public safety during festivals. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and implement measures to prevent further mishaps.
Update
Akhada Parishad to Take Holy Dip in Amrit Snan Today
Akhada Parishad will take the Amrit Snan later today as the situation normalizes, says Mahendra Giri. Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad President Mahant Ravindra Puri mentioned that they had postponed the ‘snan’ this morning due to the large crowd. They will consult with the Mela administration before proceeding.
Yog guru Baba Ramdev added that a symbolic holy dip was taken today, while praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
CM Yogi appeals to devotees to avoid Sangam and take a holy dip at the nearest ghat after the stampede-like situation.
Train Operations in Prayagraj Not Halted
Indian Railways clarified that no train operations have been stopped in Prayagraj. Due to large crowds, empty trains are being sent to reduce congestion, with priority on clearing the station area.
Over 360 Trains to Operate from Prayagraj Today
Indian Railways plans to run over 360 additional trains from Prayagraj and Subedarganj stations today.
Bomb Detection Squad Inspects Mahakumbh Area
To ensure safety, the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, along with a sniffer dog, is conducting regular security checks in the crowded Mahakumbh area on Mauni Amavasya.
Update
The death toll from a crush during the ongoing Hindu festival in Prayagraj has varied, with local officials reporting 30 deaths, while a doctor mentioned 15 fatalities. The incident occurred in stages, beginning at the sangam, where people gathered to bathe. The crush started when people fell over those sitting by the river, and as others attempted to escape, they were caught in another pile-up. Religious leaders have advised pilgrims to avoid the sangam today and bathe at alternative locations along the river. The akharas, or sects of sadhus, have canceled their planned bathing ritual.
Scenes from the site showed chaos, with people tripping over belongings and security forces struggling to control the large crowds. Many people are still searching for loved ones, gathering at the missing persons tent and hospital. Authorities had expected over 100 million people to attend the festival on Wednesday, considered the most auspicious day in over a century due to a rare celestial event. Since the festival began two weeks ago, nearly 148 million people have attended, contributing to the massive crowd pressure that led to the tragedy.
PM Modi Expresses Grief Over Maha Kumbh Stampede, Offers Condolences
Prime Minister Modi expressed deep sadness over the stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. He sent his condolences to the families of the victims and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He also mentioned that the local government is providing assistance, and he has been in touch with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
CRPF and Rapid Action Force Deployed at Akhada Marg
CRPF and Rapid Action Force teams have arrived at Akhada Marg, where several groups of seers are beginning their procession. This is the same location where the stampede-like incident occurred earlier today.
Police Order Devotees to Leave Triveni Sangam, Seers Begin Procession
The procession of seers, known as ‘peshwayi,’ has started towards the Sangam ghat, as shown in recent visuals. Following this, police have instructed devotees to leave the Triveni Ghat area. CM Yogi mentioned that while there is a large crowd, the situation is under control.
Update
30 Dead, 60 Injured in Stampede at Mahakumbh Festival
Authorities have confirmed that 30 people died in a stampede during the Mahakumbh festival, and 60 others were injured. The incident occurred early on Wednesday morning.
Vaibhav Krishna, the DIG for Mahakumbh, stated, “30 people lost their lives in the stampede that happened between 1-2 AM. 25 victims have been identified, and the remaining 5 are still being identified.”
Officials reported that a large crowd had gathered on the Akhara route before the Brahm Muhurta for the Mauni Amavasya Snan. The crowd became too large, and the barricades broke, causing people to rush to the other side, trampling over others waiting.
The administration quickly launched a rescue operation, created a green corridor for ambulances, and took 90 injured people to hospitals. Sadly, 30 of the injured died.
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