Stampede at Maha Kumbh 2025: 15 Feared Dead, Many Injured During Mauni Amavasya Snan

Prayagraj witnessed a tragic stampede during the Maha Kumbh celebrations on Mauni Amavasya, resulting in the death of at least 15 people and leaving many injured. The incident occurred in the early hours at Triveni Sangam, where massive crowds had gathered for the sacred Amrit Snan. Authorities estimate that between 80 to 100 million devotees were present, leading to severe overcrowding and chaos.

Key Developments in the Maha Kumbh Stampede

Incident Details

The stampede-like situation unfolded around 2 am, as pilgrims surged toward the ghats for the holy dip. Despite extensive security and crowd-control measures, the sheer volume of people overwhelmed the administration, causing panic and disarray.

Casualties and Injuries

Initial reports suggest that 15 bodies were brought to local hospitals, though officials have yet to confirm the exact number of casualties. Many injured devotees were rushed to Motilal Nehru Medical College and other medical facilities. Ambulances and green corridors were swiftly deployed to aid in rescue efforts.

VIDEO | Maha Kumbh 2025: Visuals from outside the Sub-Central Hospital at Sector 24 in Arail.

Earlier today, a stampede-like situation occurred at Sangam Nose after a barrier broke, injuring several people. #MahaKumbhWithPTI #MahaKumbh2025

(Full video available on PTI Videos… pic.twitter.com/vs7I6hzZK4

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 28, 2025

Rescue Operations in Full Swing

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) was deployed to manage the situation, with rescue teams working tirelessly to assist those affected. Authorities are focusing on restoring order and ensuring the safety of the remaining pilgrims.

Government Response

#MahaKumbh2025 | PM Modi spoke to UP CM Yogi Adityanath about the situation at the Maha Kumbh Mela, reviewed the developments, and called for immediate support measures. pic.twitter.com/T5mQCQM7M0

— ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urging swift rescue and relief measures. The PM expressed his condolences and assured full support to the state administration in managing the crisis.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also discussed the situation with CM Yogi Adityanath and reiterated the Centre’s commitment to providing all necessary assistance.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath following a stampede-like situation at the Sangam during the Mauni Amavasya celebrations at the Maha Kumbh Mela. He also assured him of full support from the Centre pic.twitter.com/L3D61C5meY

— IANS (@ians_india) January 29, 2025

Appeal to Devotees

#WATCH | Maha Kumbh Stampede | Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya Ji says, "I appeal to all the devotees that because a large crowd has gathered in Prayagraj today, they should not insist on taking a holy dip only at the Sangam Ghat. As of now, they should… pic.twitter.com/XobQR95BsW

— DD News (@DDNewslive) January 29, 2025

Spiritual leader Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya Ji issued an appeal, urging devotees to stay in their camps until the situation is under control. “The safety of devotees is paramount. It is advisable to avoid visiting the Sangam Ghat at this moment due to the overwhelming crowd,” he said in a video message.

Mauni Amavasya and the Mahakumbh

Mauni Amavasya marks the second Shahi Snan of the Mahakumbh, attracting millions of devotees seeking spiritual purification. However, the unprecedented turnout this year has stretched resources to the limit, highlighting challenges in crowd management at such large-scale events.

Current Situation

While rescue operations are ongoing, the administration has urged devotees to exercise caution. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all attendees.