Maha Kumbh Stampede: CM Yogi Reports Situation Stabilized, Several Devotees Critically Hurt
Click to start listening
Synopsis
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that the situation at the Maha Kumbh is now under control, although several devotees have sustained critical injuries due to a stampede. He reassured the public by urging them to ignore rumors and follow safety protocols.
Key Takeaways
- CM Yogi confirmed that the stampede situation is now under control.
- Several devotees have suffered critical injuries.
- Devotees are encouraged to avoid Sangam Nose and use nearby ghats.
- Special trains have been arranged for devotees returning home.
- Safety measures have been increased amidst high crowd numbers.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on Wednesday that the situation at the Maha Kumbh is now manageable, although several devotees have sustained critical injuries in a recent stampede.
He urged the public to disregard any circulating rumours.
CM Yogi reported that approximately 8-10 crore devotees are gathered in Prayagraj, resulting in significant pressure due to the influx towards the Sangam Nose.
As of 8:30 a.m., roughly three crore individuals had participated in the holy dip.
This statement was made during a media briefing in Lucknow, coinciding with a high-level meeting of senior officials at his residence.
Expressing sorrow over the unfortunate stampede-like scenario at the Maha Kumbh Mela, he emphasized that all necessary support is being provided and that the Maha Kumbh administration remains vigilant.
Regarding the stampede, CM Yogi detailed that it occurred at 2 a.m. as devotees surged towards the Sangam nose, leading to the collapse of barricades due to the overwhelming crowd.
He stated, “A few devotees have suffered serious injuries while attempting to cross barricading on Akhara Marg. The injured have been transported to hospitals for medical care. Since the Mauni Amavasya mahurat began last night, a substantial number of devotees have been arriving.”
“The situation is now under control... Ensuring the safety of devotees during their snan is our priority,” he added.
CM Yogi noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assessed the situation four times up to this point. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Governor Anandiben Patel are also in continuous communication regarding the latest updates.
“While the situation in Prayagraj is manageable, the crowd remains substantial. Saints from various Akharas have advised devotees to prioritize their holy dip first, and once the crowds decrease, the Akharas will proceed for their dips,” the CM stated.
He reiterated his appeal to devotees to disregard rumours and consider other ghats for their holy dip. “There are substantial crowds at Sangam Nose, Nag Vasuki Marg, and Sangam Marg. I encourage devotees not to heed any rumours. Numerous ghats are available throughout the Kumbh area, so devotees need not exclusively head towards the Sangam nose. They should consider taking their holy dip at the ghats nearest to them,” he advised.
The CM assured that the administration is committed to providing adequate medical care for the injured.
Special trains have been organized by the Railways from various stations in the Prayagraj region to facilitate the return of devotees to their respective locations, he mentioned.
CM Yogi was engaged in discussions with senior state officials concerning the circumstances following the stampede at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
He has been consistently overseeing the developments at the Maha Kumbh. As per the Chief Minister's Office, the Chief Secretary, DGP, Principal Secretary-Home, CM Office officials, and ADG Law and Order are all present in the war room established for Maha Kumbh 2025.
The CM has been receiving ongoing updates from officials and has been convening meetings since 4:00 a.m. with key officers, providing necessary directives for appropriate action.
Earlier, CM Yogi urged the devotees attending the Maha Kumbh to adhere to the guidelines, collaborate with the administration, and ignore any rumours. He requested that devotees bathe at the nearest designated Ganga ghats instead of attempting to reach the Sangam Nose area. “There are many ghats available for bathing. Please avoid overcrowding and adhere to the administration's directions. Your cooperation is vital for maintaining order and safety,” he stated on the social media platform X earlier in the day.
Earlier, PM Modi discussed the situation with CM Yogi following the stampede-like incident in the Kumbh area and called for immediate assistance measures.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke with the Chief Minister, extending full support from the Centre.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda assured Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of comprehensive support, including volunteers and health services, to effectively manage the situation.
A crowd diversion plan was executed at the Maha Kumbh, halting the entry of devotees. Groups of pilgrims were stopped on the outskirts of the city.
A stampede-like situation emerged at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj during the early hours of Wednesday, preceding the 'Amrit Snan' on 'Mauni Amavasya'.
According to officials, a significant number of pilgrims arrived for a holy bath on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, resulting in a stampede-like event that left many injured. Reports indicate that at least 30 women are injured and receiving treatment at the central hospital set up in the Mela area.
The Uttar Pradesh government anticipated 10 crore pilgrims to attend the Maha Kumbh in just one day and had heightened security measures in preparation for the 'Amrit Snan'.
