Maha Kumbh Mela Stampede: Tragedy Strikes on Mauni Amavasya
A devastating stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on January 29, 2025, has left at least 30 dead and over 60 injured, according to officials. The incident occurred in the early morning hours as an unprecedented surge of pilgrims gathered at the Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, to take part in the Amrit Snan (holy bath) on Mauni Amavasya, considered the most significant bathing day of the festival.
How the Stampede Happened
Crowd Pressure: Over 10 crore devotees were expected to visit the site, making crowd control extremely challenging.
Barrier Collapse: Witnesses and officials reported that a barricade near the main bathing ghat collapsed due to extreme pressure, causing chaos as people rushed forward.
Procession of Saints: A procession of Naga Sadhus (naked ascetics) was taking place at the time, leading to confusion and a sudden rush of devotees attempting to reach the riverbanks.
Restricted Movement: Some exits were closed due to security concerns, which left many trapped in the crowd.
Slippery Conditions: Due to the massive footfall, the area became muddy and slippery, increasing the likelihood of falls and injuries.
Rescue and Immediate Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, calling for swift emergency measures and medical assistance.
NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and local police teams were deployed for rescue efforts.
Many injured were rushed to SRN Hospital and nearby medical facilities.
Authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident, and compensation has been announced for the victims' families.
Impact on the Maha Kumbh Mela
The Amrit Snan ritual, which was set to witness millions taking a dip, had to be suspended temporarily for safety reasons.
Many families were separated in the chaos, and authorities are working on reuniting lost individuals.
Despite the tragedy, many pilgrims continued with their rituals, reflecting their deep spiritual commitment.
Official Reactions and Future Measures
The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered a judicial probe into the incident.
Security and crowd management protocols will be reviewed and strengthened for future events.
More medical camps and exit points will be arranged to prevent similar occurrences.
What is the Maha Kumbh Mela?
The Maha Kumbh Mela is held once every 12 years and is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. It attracts millions of devotees, saints, and international visitors who come to purify their souls by bathing in the holy rivers. The Mauni Amavasya Snan is the most auspicious event of the festival, believed to grant moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
Previous Kumbh Mela Tragedies
Stampedes have occurred in past Kumbh Melas due to overcrowding and inadequate crowd control:
2013 Allahabad Kumbh Mela: 36 people died in a railway station stampede.
2003 Nashik Kumbh Mela: Over 39 people died in a stampede at the bathing ghats.
1954 Allahabad Kumbh Mela: One of the worst tragedies, with an estimated 800 deaths.
This latest incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures at mass religious events in India.
For the latest updates, visit:
AP News
The Guardian
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