Thu Jan 30 02:06:49 UTC 2025: ## Prayagraj Kumbh Mela Stampede Kills 30, Injures 60
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India** – A stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Wednesday during the Mouni Amavasya bathing festival resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people and injuries to 60 more, officials confirmed. The incident occurred due to overcrowding at the Sangam confluence.
DIG Maha Kumbh Vaibhav Krishna stated that 25 of the deceased have been identified, with victims hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Gujarat. While many injured individuals are receiving treatment, some have been transferred to higher-level medical facilities. The central medical facility at the Kumbh Mela has been converted into a makeshift hospital, with media access restricted.
Despite claims by OSD Akanksha Rana that no injuries were serious, the influx of casualties continues. A record 222 special trains were operated to and from Prayagraj stations in the 24 hours leading up to the event, highlighting the massive influx of pilgrims.
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav appealed to the public for assistance, urging citizens and NGOs to provide food and water to stranded pilgrims. He criticized the government’s preparedness for managing such a large event.
In response to the tragedy, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional officials, including former Divisional Commissioner Ashish Goyal and former ADA VC Bhanu Goswami, to improve management and ensure the safe return of pilgrims. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a late-night video conference with senior officials to coordinate relief efforts and reinforce security measures. He instructed authorities to ensure the safe passage of all pilgrims returning home.
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