Prayagraj: A stampede-like situation unfolded on Wednesday morning at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, as thousands surged toward the Sangam for the Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya. Around 30 women sustained injuries in the chaos.
The incident occurred about a kilometre from the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. A sudden crowd surge led to barricades breaking, triggering panic. As several women fainted, the situation escalated into a near-stampede. The Akharas temporarily called off the event to manage the situation.
Eyewitnesses Describe The Chaos
Jay Prakash Swami, who witnessed the incident, recalled, “She was trapped under the crowd and couldn’t get up. I was the first to escape, then helped my family.” Vidhya Sahu from Belgavi, Karnataka, added, “We were walking when people pushed from behind. A pole blocked the way, and everyone got stuck.”
Authorities implemented a crowd diversion plan and halted the entry of devotees into the Maha Kumbh. Groups of devotees were stopped on the city’s outskirts to control the situation.
Providing an update, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, “The situation is under control in Maha Kumbh.” He urged devotees to avoid going to the Sangam, follow instructions, and ignore rumors.
The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya holds immense spiritual significance, especially this year due to the rare Triveni Yog, which occurs once every 144 years. This rare celestial event has drawn even larger crowds.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took stock of the situation and spoke with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath twice, assuring full cooperation. Home Minister Amit Shah also discussed the matter with the CM, offering assistance. BJP chief and Union Health Minister JP Nadda pledged medical support.
Authorities have tightened security and urged devotees to remain cautious.
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