Kumbh Mela Stampede: CM Yogi Adityanath Urges Devotees to Stay at Nearby Ghats Amid Heavy Crowd Pressure

Kumbh Mela Stampede: A tragic stampede at Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj on Mauni Amavasya led to several casualties and injuries as massive crowds gathered at Sangam Nose for the holy dip. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath provided an update on the incident, stating that the situation is under control but crowd pressure remains extremely high.
He confirmed that barricades were placed on the Akhara route between 1-2 AM, but some devotees attempted to cross them, resulting in injuries. Emergency medical aid was provided immediately, and the injured were rushed to the hospital.
Massive Crowd Pressure at Sangam Nose
CM Yogi urged devotees to avoid overcrowding and instead bathe at the nearest available ghats. He confirmed that 8-10 crore devotees are still present at Kumbh Mela, with 5.5 crore people having taken a dip yesterday.
He assured that the Uttar Pradesh government is closely monitoring the situation and working with security forces and administrative officials to manage the crowd.
PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah Monitoring the Situation
Yogi Adityanath revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called four times to get updates on the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Governor Anandiben Patel are also in constant touch with officials. High-level meetings are taking place in Lucknow, where senior officers, including the DGP and Chief Secretary, are actively involved in crowd management efforts.
CM Appeals to Devotees: Do Not Believe Rumors
The Uttar Pradesh government has advised all devotees to remain calm and avoid believing in any false information or rumors.
Alternative Ghats Available: Devotees should avoid crowding at Sangam Nose and instead bathe at nearby temporary ghats set up within a 15-20 km radius.
Prioritizing Safety: CM Yogi emphasized that pilgrims' safety is the top priority, and all necessary steps are being taken to manage the situation effectively.
Sadhus and Akharas Cooperating: Sant and Akhara representatives have agreed to allow devotees to complete their rituals first before heading towards the Sangam for their own holy dip.
Strict Security Measures in Place
Given the anticipated arrival of over 10 crore devotees, the Uttar Pradesh government had already strengthened security and crowd management measures. Officials have reiterated that all ghats hold equal spiritual significance, and pilgrims are encouraged to take their holy dip at any available location to avoid overcrowding.
Since the beginning of Mahakumbh 2025, more than 15 crore devotees have performed their holy bath at various ghats, with over 5 crore bathing on Tuesday alone.
The government is continuously monitoring the crowd flow, and further steps will be taken to ensure smooth management and prevent further incidents.