Saints head to Triveni Sangam after stampede at Maha Kumbh as 'Amrit Snan' resumes | In Points
PTC Web Desk: Saints have started heading to Triveni Sangam after stampede at Maha Kumbh as 'Amrit Snan' has resumed. A sacred day turned tragic at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj as a massive stampede broke out at Triveni Sangam during the Mauni Amavasya 'Shahi Snan' due to overwhelming crowds on Wednesday. Millions of devotees had gathered at the holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati to take part in the auspicious ‘Amrit Snan.’
At least 15 persons are reported dead in the stampede, though authorities have yet to confirm an official toll. PM Expresses Grief: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences to the victims' families and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that the situation is now under control, with all Akharas agreeing to let general devotees bathe first before their ceremonial ‘Shahi Snan.’ Devotees have been advised to use temporary ghats spanning 12-20 km rather than overcrowding the main Triveni Sangam site.
Religious leader Mahamandleshwar Premanand Puri criticised the administration for prioritizing VIP arrangements over crowd management, demanding that the Indian Army take charge of future Kumbh Melas.
Former CM Akhilesh Yadav and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge blamed the government for inadequate preparations, accusing them of neglecting safety measures.
DIG Mahakumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, assured that the situation is stable and traditional rituals will proceed under police and administrative supervision.
Over 10 crore devotees are expected in Prayagraj on Wednesday alone, while the festival has already seen 15 crore visitors since its commencement on January 12. The event, running until February 26, is projected to attract a staggering 45 crore pilgrims in total.
- With inputs from agencies