Tragedy strikes Mahakumbh: Deadly stampede at Prayagraj’s Sangam on Mauni Amavasya

Uttar Pradesh: A devastating stampede occurred at the Sangam in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj during the sacred Mauni Amavasya celebrations in the early hours of Wednesday. As an overwhelming number of devotees gathered for the holy dip in the Ganga, panic ensued, leading to multiple fatalities at the scene. Emergency services rushed to the site, transporting the injured to the central hospital within the Mela ground. Officials confirmed that several victims were brought in deceased.

Overcrowding leads to unmanageable situation

The sheer volume of pilgrims participating in the Mauni Amavasya 'Amrit Snan' made it difficult for authorities to regulate the crowd. As the numbers surged, the administration was compelled to disperse people to prevent further chaos. Despite continuous announcements urging devotees to vacate the ghats after completing their rituals, many struggled to navigate through the congested space.

Massive turnout strains security measures

The Uttar Pradesh government had anticipated an influx of nearly 10 crore devotees for this sacred occasion and had reinforced security measures accordingly. The Mahakumbh Mela 2025, which has already witnessed over 15 crore pilgrims since its commencement, saw an unprecedented turnout on Tuesday, with more than 4.8 crore devotees taking a dip in the holy waters—exceeding the 3.5 crore who participated in the Amrit Snan on Makar Sankranti.

To maintain order, the administration deployed a high-tech security system, including AI-powered CCTV cameras and drones, while personnel were stationed across key areas. In a bid to manage congestion, the Prayagraj authorities declared the Mela area a no-vehicle zone, urging locals to use two-wheelers only when necessary, particularly for senior citizens.

Government’s advisory and spiritual significance

To prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic, the government released an advisory, asking devotees to consider all ghats as equally sacred as the Sangam. Additionally, in a unique gesture, 25 quintals of rose petals were showered on pilgrims from helicopters.

Mauni Amavasya holds immense spiritual significance, as it is believed that on this day, the sacred rivers’ waters transform into ‘Amrit’ (nectar of immortality). Spiritual leader Jagatguru Sai Maa Lakshmi Devi emphasized its importance, stating, “Mauni Amavasya is not only significant for us saints but for all Hindus. Observing silence on this day promotes spiritual growth and soul purification.”

Medical response and ongoing Mahakumbh mela 2025

To address potential medical emergencies, the UP government stationed over 1,000 medical professionals throughout the Mahakumbh area, with 300 specialist doctors deployed at a super-specialty hospital. State-of-the-art medical facilities were set up to handle minor and major surgeries.

The grand Mahakumbh Mela 2025, held once every 12 years, began on January 13 and will conclude on Maha Shivaratri, February 26. Despite the tragic incident, the religious fervor remains undiminished, with millions continuing to participate in the world’s largest spiritual congregation.