Thu Jan 30 06:18:44 UTC 2025: ## Prayagraj Kumbh Mela Stampede Kills 30
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India** – A stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday during the Mauni Amavasya bathing festival, resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people and injured 60 more. The incident occurred due to overcrowding at the Sangam confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
DIG Maha Kumbh Vaibhav Krishna confirmed the casualties, stating that 25 of the deceased have been identified, with victims hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Gujarat. Many injured individuals were transported to higher medical centers. The central hospital at the Kumbh Mela is reportedly overwhelmed. Media access to the hospital has been restricted.
Despite claims by OSD Akanksha Rana that no injuries were serious, a steady stream of casualties continues to arrive at medical facilities. Authorities are attempting to manage the flow of pilgrims, implementing one-way traffic systems, but large crowds continue to converge on the Sangam.
The event highlighted the diverse traditions of pilgrims attending the Kumbh Mela, including a group from Bihar who undertook a pilgrimage involving fasting and carrying offerings.
The incident has caused immense grief, with families like that of Dilip Patel, from Nashirabad, mourning the loss of his sister-in-law and niece in the stampede. Authorities are working to ensure the swift return of bodies to their families. Reports indicate that four individuals from Ballia also perished in the tragedy.
Despite the tragedy, the Kumbh Mela continues, with vast crowds still thronging the Sangam on the second day of Mauni Amavasya, creating extremely congested conditions.
First Piper 