Prayagraj – Agency
A devastating stampede broke out at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday, resulting in the loss of at least 17 lives and leaving many more injured. The incident occurred at Sangam Ghat in the early hours of Wednesday, ahead of the Mauni Amavasya Amrit Snan.
Reactions and Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Yogi Adityanath, and other leaders have expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased. PM Modi spoke to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath three times in an hour to review the situation.
Eyewitness Accounts and Official Response
Eyewitnesses reported that the stampede occurred after some barriers broke, causing widespread panic. Special Executive Officer Akanksha Rana stated that the situation is under control, but the crowd size remains massive.
International Condolences
Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, expressed his condolences on X, stating, “Our thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones, and we wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
Other Reactions
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, and business tycoon Gautam Adani have also expressed their condolences and offered support to the affected families.
Ongoing Developments
Rescue operations are underway, and the administration is working to control the crowd. Akharas have begun taking holy dip after calling off the Amrit Snan for January 29 due to the stampede.