By The Sampadak Express
At least 15 people are feared dead following a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Wednesday, as millions of pilgrims gathered for a holy dip in the Ganga on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, one of the most auspicious days of the event. According to sources, the stampede broke out early in the morning, as crowds surged during the ‘Amrit Snan’ (holy bath). Ambulances were immediately dispatched to the scene, and injured persons were rushed to the central hospital within the Mela grounds for treatment.
Reports suggest that over 15 bodies have been brought to the hospital so far. As the crowd pressure intensified, the Mela administration made the decision to ask devotees to leave the ghats after taking their bath, in an effort to prevent further chaos. Public announcements were made urging pilgrims to vacate the ghats and make room for others. As a result, several devotees left without being able to take a dip on this sacred day.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Akharas, key religious groups at the Mela, decided to cancel their traditional ‘Amrit Snan’ for Mauni Amavasya, although large numbers of devotees continued to perform the ritual at Sangam and other ghats.
PM Modi Monitors Situation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been closely monitoring the situation and has spoken twice to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Following the incident, Modi urged for immediate relief measures to assist the affected individuals and provide necessary support to the authorities managing the event.
The Uttar Pradesh government had already anticipated a massive turnout on Mauni Amavasya, expecting around 10 crore devotees. To manage the crowds, the state had implemented extensive security measures, including deploying personnel at key locations, using AI-powered CCTV cameras, and employing drones for surveillance. The government also issued advisories, encouraging pilgrims to maintain order at the ghats and avoid spreading misinformation.
Increased Security and Medical Support
The Mahakumbh Mela, which started on January 13 and will continue until February 26, has already seen over 15 crore pilgrims participate in various rituals, with more than 4.8 crore devotees taking part in the Mauni Amavasya ‘snan’. To ensure safety and smooth conduct of the event, over 1,000 medical professionals have been stationed across the Mela area, alongside 300 specialist doctors ready to handle emergencies at the super-specialty hospital within the grounds.
Additionally, the Prayagraj authorities have declared the Mela grounds a no-vehicle zone for the next few days to ease congestion, urging locals to avoid using four-wheelers and opt for two-wheelers if needed.
Significance of Mauni Amavasya
Mauni Amavasya, held on the darkest night of the month, is believed to be the most sacred day for devotees. It is said that on this day, the waters of the holy rivers turn into ‘Amrit’ (nectar), offering spiritual purification and growth to those who observe silence and take a dip in the sacred waters. The ‘Amrit Snan’ on Mauni Amavasya is considered the highlight of the Mahakumbh Mela, drawing millions of devotees from across the world.
The Mahakumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings globally, and this year’s event is particularly significant as it marks the culmination of years of spiritual preparation for devotees.
