Changes Implemented After Maha Kumbh Mela Stampede: No Vehicle Zone and VVIP Pass Cancellations
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Synopsis
In response to the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela, the Uttar Pradesh government has implemented stringent measures in Prayagraj, including a no-vehicle zone and the cancellation of VVIP passes to enhance crowd safety and management.
Key Takeaways
- Complete ban on all vehicle types in the Maha Kumbh area.
- No special VVIP passes allowed.
- One-way traffic system enforced for better movement.
- Vehicle access restricted from neighboring districts.
- Four-wheeler entry banned until February 4.
Prayagraj, Jan 30 (NationPress) The Uttar Pradesh government has enacted stringent measures in Prayagraj following a tragic stampede that occurred during the Maha Kumbh Mela.
At least 30 individuals lost their lives, and 60 others were injured in the stampede on Wednesday, as millions of devotees gathered in the Mela area for a sacred dip on Mauni Amavasya, one of the Kumbh Mela's most significant days. The incident was reportedly instigated by devotees pushing against barricades in their rush to reach the Sangam.
In light of this disaster, the state government has implemented five critical changes aimed at ensuring safety and order.
The measures initiated by the administration include:
Complete no-vehicle zone: The entrance of all vehicle types is strictly forbidden in the Maha Kumbh fair area.
VVIP passes cancelled: No special passes will permit vehicle entry, removing any exceptions.
One-way routes enforced: A one-way traffic system has been established to facilitate the movement of devotees.
Vehicle entry restricted: Vehicles coming from adjacent districts are prohibited from entering Prayagraj to alleviate congestion.
Strict restrictions until February 4: All four-wheeler access to the city is entirely banned until this date to maintain public order.
To enhance crowd management strategies, IAS officers Ashish Goyal and Bhanu Goswami have been instructed to arrive in Prayagraj without delay. Both officials were instrumental in effectively managing the 2019 Ardh Kumbh, with Vijay Kiran also contributing. During that event, Bhanu Goswami held the position of District Magistrate and Vice Chairman of the Kumbh Mela Authority, while Ashish Goyal served as the Commissioner of Allahabad.
Moreover, five special secretary-level officers experienced in managing large events have been assigned to aid with Maha Kumbh operations.
After the catastrophe, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued several directives focusing on crowd control, traffic management, and inter-departmental collaboration.
He requested a review of the Maha Kumbh arrangements by the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP). The ADG and the District Magistrate of Prayagraj have been tasked with ensuring a secure and efficient exit for all devotees from the city.
In a late-night video conference, CM Yogi instructed senior police officials and district representatives to work closely with rail authorities. The Transport Corporation has been directed to increase bus services to handle the surge.
He emphasized that crowd pressure must not build up anywhere, and there should be no traffic or pedestrian congestion on the roads. Street vendors currently blocking pathways should be relocated to minimize traffic disruptions.
The CM also asserted that visitors to the Mela should not encounter undue restrictions while navigating the fairgrounds.
On Wednesday, the state government established a three-member judicial commission to investigate the causes behind the stampede. The panel includes Justice Harsh Kumar, former Director General V.K. Gupta, and retired IAS officer V.K. Singh. The Chief Minister announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased.
