Maha Kumbh 2025 Tragedy: Judicial Probe Ordered into Deadly Stampede at Prayagraj
On January 29, 2025, a pre-dawn stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, led to the tragic loss of 30 lives and left 60 injured. The incident occurred during Mauni Amavasya, a significant event in the Hindu calendar, as millions of devotees flocked to the Sangam area to take a holy dip. Amidst the chaos, slippers of pilgrims were seen floating on water, symbolizing the pandemonium that ensued.
In response to the disaster, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a judicial probe, appointing a three-member panel chaired by retired Justice Harsh Kumar, with former DGP VK Gupta and retired IAS officer DK Singh, to investigate the causes. The commission is expected to deliver a report within a month. Adityanath also declared a compensation of ₹25 lakh for each of the bereaved families.
Efforts to identify the deceased revealed that victims hailed from various states, including Karnataka, Assam, and Gujarat. To manage the crisis, ambulances were promptly dispatched to transport the injured and deceased to medical facilities, with critically injured individuals being referred to Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital.
As a precautionary measure, UP CM Yogi Adityanath directed the police chief and the state’s chief secretary to review the arrangements thoroughly, emphasizing crowd control and logistical management. Additional high-ranking officials have been deployed to ensure safety and streamline operations for the remaining duration of the Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13 and will continue until February 26. Enhanced coordination with railways and transport authorities has also been mandated to facilitate the arrival and departure of pilgrims.
Despite the tragedy, the spiritual event continues to draw millions, with devotees expressing satisfaction over the arrangements. The next major bathing day, Basant Panchami, is scheduled for February 3, demanding heightened vigilance to prevent further incidents.
Original Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-live-updates-stampede-amrit-snan-mauni-amavasya-prayagraj-january-30-101738195675141.html
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Publish Date: 2025-01-30 07:36:00
