Tragic Stampede at Maha Kumbh; 30 Women Injured Before Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya
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Synopsis
A stampede-like situation at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, injured around 30 women as they headed for the Amrit Snan during Mauni Amavasya. The incident occurred amidst millions of devotees, prompting temporary event suspension and heightened security measures.
Key Takeaways
- 30 women injured in stampede-like condition.
- Mauni Amavasya gathering saw millions of devotees.
- Event temporarily suspended by Akharas.
- Triveni Yog alignment adds spiritual significance.
- Authorities increased security and urged caution.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) A stampede-like incident occurred on the morning of Mauni Amavasya at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, injuring approximately 30 women who were heading towards the Sangam for the Amrit Snan, a highly significant ritual of the festival.
This event took place amidst a massive influx of devotees gathered for the sacred dip, leading the Akharas to temporarily suspend the event.
The chaos erupted about a kilometer away from the revered confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the legendary Saraswati rivers, as barricades collapsed, instigating a panic within the crowd.
The overwhelming number of people caused several women to faint, resulting in a stampede-like situation. The injured were quickly transported to a nearby hospital within the Maha Kumbh fairgrounds, while some of the more gravely injured were moved to Bailey Hospital and Swaroop Rani Medical College for further care.
Eyewitness accounts described the distressing scenes. Jay Prakash Swami, who witnessed the turmoil, shared, "She was trapped beneath the crowd and unable to rise. We were all caught in the throng. I managed to escape first, then assisted my children and father before helping my mother."
Another witness, Vidhya Sahu from Belgavi, Karnataka, recounted, "We traveled from Belgavi, Karnataka. As we walked, people surged from behind, forcing us in different directions. A pole obstructed our path, causing everyone to become ensnared near it."
A Crowd Diversion Plan was enacted at Maha Kumbh, and the entry of devotees was suspended. Groups of devotees were halted on the city's outskirts.
The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya is profoundly spiritually significant, particularly this year due to the rare 'Triveni Yog' celestial alignment, which takes place only once in 144 years.
This alignment has intensified the fervor and devotion of the millions present for the ritual. Authorities have since enhanced security protocols and advised devotees to exercise caution.
