Maha Kumbh tragedy: 30 dead, over 60 injured; says UP Police

kumbh stampede

Addressing the press, a representative of the Uttar Pradesh Police, said  30 lives were lost in an unfortunate tragedy in the ongoing Kumbh Mela. He also added that 90 persons were hospitalized initially after the stampede broke out at the venue.

Furnishing the details, the official said the chaos began when a large group of devotees gathered at a spot and broke the barricade which was in place to demarcate various areas. " The ensuing chaos resulted in the breakdown of the barricade and the resulting stampede, said the Police representative.

"Out of 30 persons who succumbed, 25 bodies have been identified. Additionally, out of 60 who are undergoing medical care, 35 are being treated for serious injurious," remarked the Police representative.

Earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held an urgent meeting to address the crisis. He confirmed that while the situation is now under control, the crowd pressure remains significant.

President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and many Union Ministers, several Chief Ministers and Opposition leaders across parties offered their condolences to the victims and their families.

The incident took place between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. when some devotees climbed over the barricades at Akhara marg. Security personnel and rescue workers were seen carrying many of the injured on stretchers. People’s belongings, including blankets and bags, lay strewn around.