More than 5.51 million pilgrims visited the Mahakumbh by 8 AM on Thursday, according to the Uttar Pradesh Information Department. This includes over 1 million Kalpwasis who are currently present at the Sangam, and more than 5.5 million devotees who took a holy dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers on Thursday morning.
As of January 29, the total number of devotees who have participated in the snan (ritual bath) since the start of the Mahakumbh has surpassed 275 million, particularly marking the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya. To manage the massive influx of devotees, authorities have strengthened crowd control measures and ensured facilities are in place for a smooth experience.
On Wednesday, a stampede-like situation unfolded in the early hours at the Mahakumbh, resulting in several casualties and injuries. Despite the brief interruption, the arrival of saints at the Triveni Sangam for the second Amrit Snan continued, albeit in smaller processions.
According to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, at least 30 people lost their lives and 60 others were injured in the pre-dawn stampede. Of the deceased, 25 bodies have been identified. The incident occurred as millions gathered for the Mauni Amavasya Snan, which also marked the second Shahi Snan of the Mahakumbh.
In response, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial aid of Rs 25 lakh to the families of those who died. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a judicial inquiry into the tragedy. “A three-member judicial commission, headed by Justice Harsh Kumar, will investigate the incident, and the committee will submit its report within a fixed timeline,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences to the victims of the stampede. “The tragic incident at Prayagraj Mahakumbh is deeply saddening. I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. I wish for the swift recovery of the injured, and I am in regular contact with the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and the state government,” PM Modi wrote on X.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the bereaved families. “I am deeply saddened by the tragedy at Mahakumbh. My condolences to the families of the victims. May they find strength during this difficult time. The injured are being treated, and I am in continuous touch with the Chief Minister and local authorities to monitor the situation,” Shah said on X.
