Maha Kumbh Stampede LIVE: Barrier Collapses Trigger Panic at Mauni Amavasya Holy Dip

Prayagraj, January 29, 2025:

Maha Kumbh Stampede LIVE: Chaos resembling a stampede occurred at the Sangam as the Maha Kumbh Mela is in progress, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries after a section of the barricade collapsed amid a massive rush of devotees. The mishap took place on the highly awaited Mauni Amavasya holy dip, which is one of the most significant bathing days of the festival.

Authorities had estimated that over 10 crore devotees would arrive in Prayagraj for the Mauni Amavasya bath. However, the overwhelming crowd pressure led to the collapse of a barricade near the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, resulting in widespread panic.

Following the incident, the Akharas—the venerable sects of saints and seers—cancelled their ‘Amrit Snan’, a routine ritual. Unperturbed by this, however, thousands continued their holy dip at Sangam and other approved ghats across the Mela complex.

Officer on Special Duty for the Mela, Akanksha Rana, said several people have been injured in the mishap and are being treated at hospitals. “Some people have got injured and have been hospitalised after a barrier broke at the Sangam. We are yet to have the exact count of those injured,” she said.

At least 30 women were reportedly injured and admitted to the central hospital set up within the Mela premises. Authorities have implemented crowd control measures and are monitoring the situation closely.

After the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath advised the pilgrims to refrain from crowding and take a holy dip at the nearest ghat instead of rushing toward Triveni Sangam. The government sounded an emergency crowd management plan that shut down all entrances to the Mela area and stopped processions of pilgrims outside the city.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda spoke to CM Yogi Adityanath, assuring full support, including additional health services and volunteers to manage the emergency. In addition, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reached out to the Chief Minister, extending the Centre’s assistance in controlling the situation and providing necessary resources.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the situation by speaking with CM Yogi Adityanath. He ordered the administration to provide immediate relief and ensure the injured pilgrims get proper medical attention. The administration is strictly monitoring the situation and has provided additional security forces and medical teams in the Mela area. The administration asked the pilgrims to remain calm and follow the instructions for their safety.

With millions of devotees still gathered for the Maha Kumbh, officials are on their toes with a view to improve crowd management strategies to avoid further mishaps during the festival.

Stay glued for more developments on the Maha Kumbh Mela.