
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – In the early hours of January 29, 2025, a stampede occurred at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, resulting in several injuries among the massive gathering of devotees. The incident took place between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. near the Akhara Marg area when pilgrims attempted to bypass barricades to access the sacred bathing site at the Triveni Sangam during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya.
Official Response
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath confirmed that some devotees sustained serious injuries but assured the public that the situation is now under control. He emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols and urged pilgrims to follow the guidelines established by authorities to prevent such incidents.
Prime Minister’s Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to those affected by the stampede. He stated that he is in constant communication with state officials to monitor the situation and ensure that adequate measures are taken to manage the crowd and provide medical assistance to the injured.
Managing Massive Crowds
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is renowned for being one of the largest religious gatherings globally, attracting millions of devotees. On Mauni Amavasya alone, authorities anticipated around 100 million participants converging at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers for a ritualistic bath believed to cleanse sins and facilitate liberation.
Safety Measures and Challenges
To manage the colossal crowds, the administration deployed approximately 50,000 security personnel and installed over 2,500 surveillance cameras across the venue. Despite these precautions, the sheer volume of attendees poses significant challenges in ensuring safety and order during peak ritual times.
Public Advisory
In light of the incident, officials have reiterated their appeal to devotees to remain patient, follow designated pathways, and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience for all.