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29 Jan 2025

Stampede at Prayagraj Mahakumbh: 14 Die, Amrit Snan Will Continue; PM Modi in Touch With Yogi



In a tragic incident at the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, a stampede occurred late on Tuesday, January 28, resulting in the deaths of over 14 people and injuring more than 50 others. The chaos unfolded around 1:30 AM on the banks of the Sangam, prompting the administration to request the cancellation of the Amrit Snan ritual scheduled for Wednesday, January 29, across all 13 akhadas.


At the same time, to control the crowd of devotees, entry of common people in Sangam Nose area has been banned.


Stampede was  triggered by rumors


The stampede was reportedly triggered by rumors that caused panic among the devotees, leading to an uncontrollable surge in the crowd. In the ensuing chaos, several individuals, including women, fell to the ground and were trampled. To manage the situation, NSG commandos have been deployed, and access to the Sangam Nose area has been restricted to the public.


Amrit snan will continue


Following the incident, a meeting of akhada leaders was convened, resulting in a decision to proceed with the Amrit Snan after 10 AM, despite the earlier cancellation. However, the traditional Shobha Yatra will not take place, and the processions have been shortened due to the diminished crowd at designated ghats.


Most pontoon bridges were closed


The stampede was exacerbated by the closure of most pontoon bridges for the Amrit Snan, leading to a massive influx of devotees—estimated at around 5 crore—gathering at the Sangam. The lack of separate entry and exit routes contributed to the chaos, as people were unable to escape the stampede.


Over 70 ambulances were dispatched


In response to the emergency, over 70 ambulances were dispatched to the scene to transport the injured and deceased to local hospitals. The administration has also restricted access to the Sangam Nose area and implemented measures to control the crowd, including stopping devotees from entering Prayagraj from surrounding districts..


PM in regular contact with Yogi


Prime Minister Modi has been in regular contact with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, discussing updates and arrangements for the Mahakumbh 2025. 


Emergency meeting convened


In light of the stampede, CM Adityanath has called for an emergency meeting to address crowd management strategies not only for the Mahakumbh but also for upcoming events in Ayodhya and Varanasi. Enhanced surveillance measures, including helicopter and drone monitoring, have been implemented to ensure safety in the fair area.


Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya has urged devotees to exercise caution and not to prioritize bathing at the Sangam Ghat amidst the large crowds. He has encouraged them to consider other nearby ghats for their holy dip to prevent further incidents.

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