A stampede at the ongoing Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has caused multiple casualties.
According to Indian media reports, at least 10 people have died in the incident that occurred last night. A doctor from Prayagraj City, speaking anonymously to news agency AFP, mentioned that the death toll could be 15. The Indian newspaper Dainik Bhaskar reported 14 deaths and over 50 injuries, stating that 14 bodies had been sent to Swaroop Rani Hospital for post-mortem.
The exact number of casualties is still unclear, as no official statement has been released by the authorities. Following the incident, the ritual “Amrit Snan” was temporarily halted.
The grand Kumbh Mela, which began on 13 January, has already seen around 150 million devotees taking a holy dip in the Ganges. On this special day of “Mauni Amavasya”, it was estimated that over 100 million people would participate in the event.
However, on Tuesday night, a sudden stampede occurred at the Sangam area in Prayagraj, leading to several people being trampled. In response, the local administration removed barricades and opened the roads to manage the crowd.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has contacted Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to inquire about the situation. Following this, CM Yogi Adityanath urged people not to rush to the Sangam area and instead perform their holy dip at nearby spots along the Ganges. He also requested people to follow the administration’s instructions and avoid spreading or believing in rumors.
