30 dead, 60 injured in Mahakumbh stampede, says UP top cop
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Rescue operation ongoing after stampede during Mauni Amavasya at Maha Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, January 29, 2025. (PTI photo)
New Delhi: At least 30 people were killed and around 60 sustained injuries in a tragic stampede that occurred at the Mahakumbh Mela ground in Prayagraj during the early hours of Wednesday, a senior Uttar Pradesh police officer confirmed.
DIG Mahakumbh Vaibhav Krishna stated that 25 victims have been identified so far, while efforts are ongoing to ascertain the identities of the remaining deceased. The injured are currently receiving medical treatment at hospitals. This is the first official confirmation of the death toll and number of injured following the incident. As news of the tragedy spread, political leaders promptly expressed their condolences, though the exact figures were initially unclear.
According to the police, the stampede occurred between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. before the Brahma Muhurta when an overwhelming crowd gathered at Akhara Marg. The sheer number of devotees caused the barricades to collapse, leading to a chaotic rush in which several people were trampled while attempting to reach the Sangam for a holy dip. At least 90 injured devotees were transported to hospitals via ambulances, but tragically, 30 succumbed to their injuries.
Preliminary reports suggest that some of the unidentified victims hailed from Assam, Gujarat, and Karnataka. In response to the disaster, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged saints, seers, Akharas, and Mahamandaleshwars to delay their ritualistic dip by a few hours to help manage the situation.
The incident took place on Mauni Amavasya, one of the holiest days in the Hindu calendar, observed on Magh Krishna Amavasya. Devotees believe that on this day, the waters of the sacred river transform into 'Amrit' (nectar), making the ritualistic bath of immense spiritual significance. Traditionally, this bath is performed in complete silence.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring medical assistance for the injured, and taking measures to prevent further mishaps during the ongoing religious festivities.
With IANS inputs