Thu Jan 30 06:30:50 UTC 2025: ## Maha Kumbh Stampede: 30 Dead, Strict New Measures Implemented

**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh –** A deadly stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the lives of 30 pilgrims and injured 60 more on Wednesday. The tragedy occurred during the Mauni Amavasya, a highly auspicious day for a sacred dip in the Ganges, as millions of devotees surged towards the water. Police reported the stampede was triggered by pilgrims pushing against barricades.

In response to the tragedy, the Uttar Pradesh state government has implemented sweeping changes to improve crowd control and prevent further incidents. These include:

* **Complete No-Vehicle Zone:** All vehicles are banned from the Maha Kumbh fair area.
* **VIP Pass Cancellation:** No exceptions will be made for vehicle entry, even for VVIPs.
* **One-Way Traffic System:** A one-way system has been implemented to streamline devotee movement.
* **Restricted Vehicle Entry:** Vehicles from neighboring districts are being stopped at district borders.
* **Four-Wheeler Ban:** A complete ban on four-wheelers entering the city remains in effect until February 4th.

To bolster crowd management, experienced IAS officers Ashish Goyal and Bhanu Goswami, key players in the successful 2019 Ardh Kumbh, have been deployed. Five additional special secretary-rank officers with event management expertise have also been assigned.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a review of Maha Kumbh arrangements by the Chief Secretary and DGP, and directed the ADG and District Magistrate of Prayagraj to ensure the safe departure of all devotees. He also held a late-night video conference with senior police officials from multiple districts to coordinate efforts. Additional buses have been deployed, holding areas established at border points, and increased patrolling implemented on major routes leading to Prayagraj.

The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh (approximately $300,000 USD) for the families of each victim. A three-member judicial commission, headed by Justice Harsh Kumar, has been appointed to investigate the stampede’s causes.

Read More