Tragedy Strikes Kumbh Mela as Crowd Crush Claims Lives of 30 Devotees

INIndia|

During the Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, India, a deadly crowd crush occurred on Tuesday night, resulting in the deaths of at least 30 devotees and injuries to 60 others, according to Uttar Pradesh police. The incident unfolded amidst a historically large gathering at the sacred confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, where millions of Hindus had traveled to bathe on one of the festival's holiest days, Mauni Amavasya.

As darkness fell, the crowd surged towards the riverbank, creating a chaotic scene as people attempted to converge at the sacred waters. Devotees reported panic ensued when initial barriers collapsed, leading to a stampede. Eyewitness accounts described desperate families being separated as they fought to escape the throng, with witnesses asserting that law enforcement could not effectively manage the overwhelming numbers.

Despite the tragedy, Kumbh Mela festivities persist, underscoring the religious significance of the event, projected to attract 400 million attendees by its conclusion in February. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has heavily promoted this year's Kumbh Mela, highlighting its political implications amidst a massive turnout.

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