Prayagraj, India – A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya has left several people feared dead and many others injured. The incident occurred as lakhs of devotees thronged the ghats of the holy river Ganga to take a sacred dip, leading to chaos and an uncontrollable rush.
According to eyewitness accounts, the stampede broke out when a massive crowd gathered near the main bathing ghat early in the morning. Pilgrims, including elderly individuals and children, struggled to navigate through the dense gathering, resulting in panic and a sudden surge that turned deadly.
Local authorities and emergency responders rushed to the scene, initiating rescue operations and providing medical assistance to the injured. However, the sheer magnitude of the crowd made it challenging for officials to control the situation immediately. Several devotees were reportedly trampled in the melee, and unconfirmed reports suggest that multiple fatalities have occurred.
Officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the stampede and assess whether safety measures were adequately enforced. The district administration had deployed thousands of security personnel and installed barricades to manage the influx of pilgrims, but the unexpected rush overwhelmed the arrangements.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have expressed deep condolences over the tragedy. Authorities have assured that relief efforts are being prioritized, and hospitals in Prayagraj are on high alert to treat the injured.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracts millions of devotees seeking spiritual cleansing in the holy waters of the Ganga. The Mauni Amavasya bathing day holds special significance, drawing an even larger crowd than usual.
Rescue operations continue as officials work to provide aid to affected families. Further updates are awaited as authorities assess the full extent of the tragedy and implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
