Prayagraj: At least 30 people were killed and about 60 injured in the stampede that broke out at the mela ground in Prayagraj, in the early hours of Wednesday, a top police officer said.
Vaibhav Krishna, the DIG rank officer at Mahakumbh, told the press that 25 bodies were identified so far and the process of identification for the rest was underway. He said the injured were currently undergoing treatment at the hospital.
He said that at least 90 people were taken to the hospital through ambulances but unfortunately, 30 devotees have passed away. Sharing information on the unidentified deceased devotees, he said that they are from Assam, Gujarat and Karnataka.
Soon after the news broke about deaths in stampede, political parties were prompt in offering their condolences on loss of loved ones, however, the number of deaths was not clear.
Also, talking about the Uttar Pradesh government’s efforts in salvaging the situation post stampede, he said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made an appeal to all the saints, seers, Akharas and Mahamandaleshwars to postpone their dip by a few hours.
Notably, 'Mauni Amavasya' is the one of most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, falling on Magh Krishna Amavasya. It is believed that on this day, the water of the holy river turns into ‘Amrit’. The bath on this day is traditionally performed in silence.
Following the tragedy, the state government has decided on some key changes which have been put into effect by the administration.
Entry of all types of vehicles is strictly prohibited in the Maha Kumbh fair area, VVIP passes stand cancelled and no special passes will allow vehicle entry, eliminating any exceptions.
A one-way traffic system has been enforced to streamline the movement of devotees and vehicles arriving from neighbouring districts of Prayagraj are being stopped at district borders to reduce congestion. Entry of four-wheelers into the city is completely banned until February 4 to maintain order.
Additionally, five special secretary-rank officers with previous experience in handling large-scale events have been assigned to assist with Maha Kumbh operations. After the tragedy, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued multiple guidelines focusing on crowd control, traffic management, and inter-departmental coordination.
The CM also stressed that visitors to the Mela should not face unnecessary restrictions while moving through the fairgrounds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also directed the state government to take all necessary security measures following the stampede.
