15 Killed in Stampede at Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh
A tragic stampede at the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has resulted in the deaths of 15 devotees. Authorities fear that the death toll could rise further. The incident occurred as thousands of pilgrims gathered at the Sangam to take a holy dip on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya. The stampede was triggered when barricades collapsed due to the overwhelming crowd. Several others sustained serious injuries in the incident.
The bodies of the deceased and the injured have been transported to Swaroop Rani Hospital. Among the victims are several women. Emergency services responded swiftly, with nearly 70 ambulances arriving at the scene shortly after the incident.
The Kumbh Mela has been witnessing an enormous turnout of devotees. On the previous day alone, approximately 55 million pilgrims took a dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken cognizance of the incident and sought details from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In light of the tragedy, 13 Akharas have decided to cancel the Mauni Amavasya Amrit Snan. Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad President Ravindra Puri stated that the decision was made due to the massive crowds at the Sangam.
