Wed Jan 29 10:20:41 UTC 2025: ## Maha Kumbh Stampede Leaves Several Dead, Many Injured

**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India** – A devastating stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on the auspicious day of Mauni Amavasya, has resulted in several deaths and numerous injuries. The incident occurred as millions of devotees converged on the Triveni Sangam for the holy dip.

The stampede began when barricades approximately one kilometer from the Sangam broke, causing a crush of people, particularly affecting women. At least 30 women are reported injured and receiving treatment at hospitals within the Mela grounds and at nearby facilities like Bailey Hospital and Swaroop Rani Medical College. The exact number of fatalities is yet to be confirmed, although authorities fear a significantly higher death toll.

Following the incident, Akharas (religious orders) temporarily suspended the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam for several hours before resuming. Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, expressed his condolences, stating, “The heart-wrenching incident deeply saddens us. We pay our humble tributes to the departed souls and express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families.” The Adani Group, along with the Mela administration and the Uttar Pradesh state government, are committed to assisting affected families.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered his condolences and assured that the local administration is providing support to those affected. He reportedly spoke with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding the situation.

Chief Minister Adityanath stated that the situation is under control, although crowd pressure remains. He urged devotees to bathe at nearby ghats to alleviate pressure on the Sangam, emphasizing that all ghats offer equal spiritual merit on Mauni Amavasya. Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad president Mahant Ravindra Puri confirmed that seers had postponed their participation in the Amrit Snan due to the incident.

The incident highlights the challenges of managing large crowds during religious events and underscores the need for improved safety measures. Investigations into the cause of the stampede are ongoing.

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