Thu Jan 30 05:05:47 UTC 2025: ## Maha Kumbh Stampede: 30 Dead, Uttar Pradesh Bolsters Security
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, January 30, 2025** – A day after a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj claimed 30 lives and injured 60 others, the Uttar Pradesh government has significantly increased security measures. The incident occurred Wednesday during the Mauni Amavasya, one of the most sacred days of the Hindu calendar, as millions of devotees converged for a holy dip in the Sangam. Police attributed the stampede to overwhelming crowd pressure, with pilgrims breaching barricades.
Despite the tragedy, devotees continued to arrive in large numbers Thursday, with over 5.5 million having taken the holy dip by 8 am, according to the state government. To manage the remaining crowds, the area has been declared a no-vehicle zone until the event concludes, with exceptions made only for essential services.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a thorough investigation into the stampede, led by Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh and Director General of Police Prashant Kumar. The government has also deployed two former senior officers and five special secretary-level officers to assist with crowd management and safety until February 12th, focusing on ensuring seamless arrangements for the upcoming Basant Panchami celebrations.
While some pilgrims expressed concerns, many voiced gratitude for the arrangements, highlighting the large number of devotees who attended the event. The Maha Kumbh Mela began on January 13th and continues until February 26th. The incident underscores the challenges of managing massive crowds at large religious gatherings.
First Piper 