New Delhi:
In the early hours of Wednesday, January 29, 2025, the sacred grounds of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, were marred by a devastating stampede that left multiple casualties and numerous injuries. This tragic event occurred on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya, a day of profound spiritual significance, particularly this year due to the rare celestial alignment known as ‘Triveni Yog,’ which occurs once every 144 years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly extended his condolences to the families of those affected and assured full support from the central government. The incident has prompted immediate and coordinated responses from top leaders and local authorities.
The stampede broke out around 2:00 AM near the Triveni Sangam ghat, where millions of pilgrims had gathered to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya. The area was overwhelmed by teeming crowds, leading to the collapse of barricades and resulting in chaos. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of utter confusion and panic as pilgrims, many of whom were carrying heavy luggage, found themselves trapped in the surging crowd.
The breaking of barriers at the Sangam Nose area was identified as the primary cause of the stampede. Several people were injured, with reports indicating that around 30 women were among those hurt. The injured were promptly taken to the central hospital established within the Mela grounds for treatment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been closely monitoring the situation, speaking to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath multiple times to ensure that all necessary assistance is provided to those affected. Modi expressed his wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured and assured the public that the local administration is fully engaged in helping those in need.
The local administration, including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Principal Secretary (Home), are actively taking stock of the situation to restore order and ensure the safety of the pilgrims. CM Yogi Adityanath has urged devotees to avoid the Sangam Nose area and instead take their holy dip at the nearest ghat, emphasizing the need for cooperation with the administration’s instructions.
The incident led to the cancellation of processions and the deferment of the holy dip by several akharas. Despite this, the Maha Kumbh 2025 has already seen an immense turnout, with over 15 crore pilgrims taking a holy dip in the past 17 days. The day before the incident, a record 4.80 crore devotees participated in the snan, highlighting the event’s massive scale and spiritual significance.
The Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, is set to continue until February 26. The administration is working diligently to ensure that the remaining days of the event proceed smoothly and safely.
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