Maha Kumbh Stampede in Prayagraj Kills 30, Safety Measures Tightened

A day after a deadly stampede during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj left 30 people dead and 60 injured, the Uttar Pradesh government introduced five new safety measures, including restrictions on vehicular movement in the area.

The tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday as large crowds surged towards the Sangam to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya, a key bathing day of the Kumbh Mela. Officials said overcrowding at barricades led to the chaos.

Following the stampede, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath convened an emergency meeting with senior officials from multiple districts. Key directives were issued to enhance crowd management and prevent further mishaps.

New Safety Measures Implemented

Judicial Inquiry Ordered – A formal investigation will examine the causes of the stampede and assess accountability.

No-Vehicle Zone Enforced – To ensure smooth pedestrian movement, entry of four-wheelers into Prayagraj has been banned until February 4. Vehicles from neighboring districts are being halted at designated checkpoints.

Traffic and Crowd Management Strengthened – Officials have been directed to maintain clear return routes from Prayagraj and prevent congestion at major access points, including routes connecting Ayodhya, Kanpur, Fatehpur, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

Relocation of Street Vendors – Vendors currently operating on roads within the Mela zone are being moved to designated areas to free up space and minimize obstructions.

Holding Areas with Basic Amenities – Special holding areas are being set up at border points where pilgrims will have access to food and drinking water before being allowed to enter the festival grounds based on crowd conditions.

Deputy Inspector General of Maha Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, confirmed that intensified patrolling and barricade reinforcements are underway. Police units have been deployed along key pathways to regulate the flow of devotees.

The Chief Minister also announced that the upcoming Amrit Snan, scheduled for Basant Panchami on February 3, will proceed under strict supervision. Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police have been tasked with reviewing security arrangements ahead of the event.

With millions expected to attend the remaining days of the Maha Kumbh, officials highlight30 Dead in Prayagraj Maha Kumbh Stampede, Govt Imposes No-Vehicle Zone

that adherence to these guidelines is essential to prevent further tragedies.