Wed Jan 29 07:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Kumbh Mela Stampede Leaves Dozens Injured

**Prayagraj, India** – A stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, India, on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, left dozens injured on Wednesday. The incident occurred near the Sangam confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, as a surging crowd overwhelmed barriers.

Dozens of ambulances rushed injured pilgrims to the Kumbh Mela’s central hospital, where treatment is underway. Several seriously injured individuals were transferred to higher-level medical facilities. While Mela OSD Akanksha Rana stated that no injuries are considered critical, a continuous stream of injured pilgrims arrived at the hospital, which has been effectively transformed into a makeshift field hospital. Media access to the hospital has been restricted.

Authorities reported that by midday Wednesday, a total of 42.4 million people, including 1 million “kल्पवासियों” (those staying for the entire duration of the Mela), had taken a holy dip in the confluence. This brings the total number of pilgrims who have participated in the Sangam ritual since the start of the Kumbh Mela to 199.4 million.

The stampede, which began late Tuesday night, is partly attributed to the confluence of a rare 144-year astrological event, highlighted by both the government and religious leaders. Many pilgrims were seated or lying down on the ghats (riverbanks) to take advantage of this auspicious time, when they were subsequently overwhelmed by a surging, uncontrolled crowd.

Juna Akhara’s Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avadheshanand Giri Maharaj stated that his Akhara postponed its scheduled dip to avoid causing further congestion. He emphasized the need for unity in India and called for an end to caste-based divisions.

Industrialist Gautam Adani expressed his condolences on social media, offering his support to the affected families and pledging the Adani Group’s assistance to the government and mela administration in relief efforts.

Despite the incident, a flower shower was conducted for the sadhus (holy men) and saints participating in the sacred bath at the Sangam. Authorities are investigating the incident and assessing the full extent of the injuries.

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