Thu Jan 30 10:58:18 IST 2025: ## Maha Kumbh Stampede: 30 Dead, Strict New Measures Implemented

**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh –** A pre-dawn stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in the deaths of 30 pilgrims and injuries to 60 others on Wednesday. The tragedy, which occurred during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya, prompted the Uttar Pradesh state government to immediately implement sweeping changes to prevent further incidents.

The stampede, according to officials, was caused by pilgrims surging against barricades while trying to reach the Sangam for a holy dip. In response, the government has enacted five key measures:

* **Complete No-Vehicle Zone:** All vehicle entry into the Maha Kumbh fair area is now prohibited. This includes the cancellation of all VVIP passes granting vehicle access.
* **One-Way Traffic System:** A one-way system has been implemented to manage devotee movement.
* **Restricted Vehicle Entry:** Vehicles from surrounding districts are being stopped at district borders to alleviate congestion.
* **Four-Wheeler Ban:** A complete ban on four-wheeler entry into Prayagraj is in effect until February 4th.
* **Increased Staffing:** Experienced IAS officers from the successful 2019 Ardh Kumbh, along with five additional special secretary-rank officers, have been deployed to assist with crowd management.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a review of the Maha Kumbh arrangements by the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police. He also announced a compensation of ₹25 lakh (approximately $300,000 USD) for the families of the deceased. A three-member judicial commission has been appointed to investigate the stampede.

Additional measures include increased police patrolling, the deployment of extra buses by the Transport Corporation, and the establishment of holding areas at border points to manage crowd flow into the fairgrounds. These holding areas will provide food, water, and electricity.

The Chief Minister has held a late-night video conference with senior police officers and officials from multiple districts to coordinate efforts for the safe departure of pilgrims. Close coordination with rail authorities is underway to manage the large number of devotees returning home.

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