Tragedy at Maha Kumbh 2025: Stampede at Sangam on Mauni Amavasya Leaves 15 Feared Dead

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Mauni Amavasya led to the death of at least 15 people, with multiple casualties feared. The massive gathering for the Amrit Snan at the Sangam resulted in overcrowding, prompting the Mela administration to disperse crowds for safety.

Authorities rushed ambulances and medical teams to the scene, and the injured were taken to the central hospital within the Mela grounds. Following the tragedy, several Akhadas called off the Shahi Snan,

although devotees continued to bathe at different ghats.

PM Modi Monitoring Situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke twice with CM Yogi Adityanath, directing immediate relief efforts. Security had been ramped up in anticipation of over 10 crore devotees, with drones, AI-powered CCTVs, and heavy police deployment in place. The UP government also declared the area a no-vehicle zone, appealing to locals to use two-wheelers sparingly.

Unprecedented Crowds Amid Rituals

Since January 13, the Maha Kumbh has seen 15 crore pilgrims, with 4.8 crore bathing on Tuesday alone. The UP government deployed over 1,000 medical professionals and 300 specialist doctors at Mahakumbh Nagar for emergencies.

Mauni Amavasya holds deep spiritual significance, with beliefs that on this day, the Ganga's waters turn into Amrit (nectar of immortality). Despite the tragic incident, lakhs of pilgrims continued their rituals at different ghats.