A stampede-like situation broke out at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on Mauni Amavasya, the most auspicious bathing day of the event. Massive crowds of devotees arrived for the Amrit Snan at the Triveni Sangam, leading to an uncontrollable rush near the bathing ghats.
As per official reports, over 30 women were injured and rushed to the central hospital in the Mela area. With over 10 crore pilgrims expected on this single day, authorities had already increased security measures, yet the crowd surge caused chaos and panic.
How Did the Stampede-Like Situation Unfold?
The situation escalated in the early hours of January 29, 2025, as lakhs of devotees attempted to reach Sangam Nose, the main confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
- Between 1 AM – 2 AM: Some devotees breached barricades, resulting in uncontrolled pushing and shoving.
- Crowd Control Measures Failed: Security personnel were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of devotees.
- Stampede-Like Situation: As people rushed forward, many fell, leading to injuries.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath later clarified that some critically injured devotees were receiving treatment. Rescue operations were quickly launched to prevent further casualties.
What Is the Significance of Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya?
The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya is the most spiritually significant day of the Maha Kumbh Mela. This year, it holds greater importance due to the rare celestial alignment of ‘Triveni Yog’, which occurs once in 144 years.
- Spiritual Importance: It is believed that on this day, the waters of the Sangam turn into Amrit (divine nectar), cleansing sins and granting moksha (liberation).
- Akhara Processions: Traditionally, Sadhus and Akharas take the first holy dip in a majestic procession, followed by devotees.
- Massive Devotee Turnout: Over 19.94 crore pilgrims had bathed till January 28, 2025, and today’s numbers were expected to exceed 10 crore.
What Were the Security Measures at Maha Kumbh 2025?
Given the sheer scale of Maha Kumbh, the Uttar Pradesh government had implemented extensive security measures to manage the crowd:
- AI-Based Surveillance: Live monitoring through CCTV and drones.
- Increased Police Presence: Over 20,000 police personnel were deployed.
- No-Vehicle Zone: The entire Mela area was declared a restricted zone.
- Emergency Medical Teams: Over 1,000 doctors and 300 specialists were stationed at a super-specialty hospital in Mahakumbh Nagar.
- Special Train Services: 360 trains, including 190 special trains, were running to manage the influx of devotees.
Despite these precautions, the unexpected surge of devotees before sunrise led to an uncontrollable crowd situation.
How Are Authorities Handling the Situation?
Following the stampede-like incident, high-level emergency meetings were called.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s Statement
- “Don’t believe rumors. The situation is under control,” he assured.
- Appealed to devotees to take a dip at the nearest ghats rather than insisting on Sangam Nose.
- Akhadas to bathe later: Religious groups decided to let devotees bathe first to ease congestion.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Involvement
- PM Modi personally called CM Yogi Adityanath thrice for updates.
- He instructed immediate relief measures and assured full support from the Central Government.
Rescue Operations Underway
- Bomb Detection & Disposal Squads are scanning the area.
- Medical teams are working round-the-clock to treat injured devotees.
Who Were the Key Figures Present at Maha Kumbh 2025?
Despite the crowd surge, several prominent figures took part in Maha Kumbh rituals:
1. BJP MP Hema Malini
- Took a holy dip at Triveni Sangam along with Baba Ramdev and Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj.
- Expressed gratitude for participating in the auspicious Mauni Amavasya Snan.
2. Baba Ramdev
- Conducted a symbolic snan, praying for quick recovery of the injured.
- Stated, “This year’s Amrit Snan is historic due to Triveni Yog.”
What Are the Latest Developments?
1. Government’s Assurance on Safety Measures
- CM Yogi Adityanath has called for a high-level review meeting.
- Officers, including the UP DGP and Chief Secretary, were summoned to Lucknow.
2. Akharas Postpone Their Snan
- The Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani returned without taking a dip, following the incident.
3. Railways Managing the Influx of Devotees
- Special train services across three railway zones continue without disruptions.
Why Is Maha Kumbh 2025 Special?
The 2025 Maha Kumbh is historically significant due to the rare celestial alignment of Triveni Yog. This once-in-144-year event has led to record-breaking pilgrim turnout, with over 15 crore devotees visiting so far.
This spiritual gathering continues to be one of the largest religious congregations in the world, with authorities ensuring safe and smooth conduct despite challenges.
FAQs
What caused the stampede-like situation at Maha Kumbh 2025?
The overwhelming crowd surge at Sangam Nose led to uncontrolled pushing as devotees attempted to reach the holy confluence.
How many people were injured in the stampede-like incident?
As per reports, more than 30 devotees, mostly women, were injured. Some are critically injured and undergoing treatment in the central hospital.
What steps are being taken to prevent further crowd surges?
The government has:
- Increased security personnel.
- Blocked access to congested areas.
- Appealed to devotees to use alternative ghats.
Has PM Modi personally intervened in Maha Kumbh 2025?
Yes, PM Modi has spoken with CM Yogi Adityanath multiple times, directing immediate relief and security measures.
Are Akharas taking part in Amrit Snan?
Following the incident, some Akharas have postponed their snan to prioritize devotee safety.
Will Maha Kumbh 2025 continue as planned?
Yes, but with stricter crowd control measures in place to prevent further incidents.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 remains a landmark event in Indian history, despite the challenges faced due to crowd surges. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring devotees’ safety and spiritual fulfillment.
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