Thousands gathered in India’s Kumbh Mela festival, but tragedy struck early when a stampede at the confluence of three rivers claimed dozens of lives on Wednesday morning. Devotees were rushes to immerse themselves in sacred waters, marking the most auspicious day of the six-week Hindu festival. State police reported 30 deaths and 60 injuries from the pre-dawn crowd rush. The morgue at a local hospital brought 39 bodies, with officials saying more victims remain on their way.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as devoted pilgrims surged toward the sacred water, causing panic and overcrowding. State officials praised the quick response to control the situation and deploy additional medical teams. Opposition parties have claimed responsibility for the surge, blaming what they describe as mismanagement by the government and VIP culture during the festival.
The tragedy comes amid growing tension as authorities manage a massive crowd in Prayagraj, with heavy traffic and stranded travelers reported from neighboring states. While officials hope to prevent further incidents, the Kumbh Mela remains one of India’s most significant cultural and religious events.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/casualties-feared-stampede-breaks-out-indias-maha-kumbh-festival-hindu-reports-2025-01-29