Prayagraj – A day after a devastating stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj resulted in the loss of 30 lives and left over 60 injured, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced strict safety measures to prevent further incidents. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, after reviewing the situation, has directed officials to implement a complete ban on VVIP passes and enforce a no-vehicle zone around key Mela areas.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
On January 29, during Mauni Amavasya, one of the most sacred bathing days of the Kumbh Mela, millions of devotees rushed to the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip. However, in the process, security barricades were overwhelmed, leading to a chaotic stampede.
According to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Maha Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, the situation escalated when pilgrims surged forward beyond the restricted areas, resulting in suffocation and injuries.
In response, the Chief Minister convened an emergency late-night meeting with top officials, directing them to implement five key safety measures.
New Safety Measures Implemented
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Judicial Inquiry & Traffic Regulation
- A judicial probe has been ordered to investigate the stampede.
- Key roads and intersections within the Maha Kumbh area will remain free from traffic congestion to prevent blockages.
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No-Vehicle Zone & Restricted Entry
- No four-wheelers will be allowed into Prayagraj until February 4 to ease movement.
- Vehicles from neighboring districts will be stopped at entry checkpoints to prevent overcrowding.
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Strict Ban on Special Passes
- No VVIP passes will be issued to officials, ministers, or special guests.
- This measure ensures that devotees follow the same movement restrictions without exceptions.
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Reorganization of Vendor Spaces & Holding Areas
- Street vendors will be shifted to designated zones to prevent road blockages.
- New holding areas will be established at major entry points to control the movement of pilgrims in phases.
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Infrastructure & Crowd Management
- Adequate food, drinking water, and medical aid will be provided in waiting zones.
- Emergency routes will remain clear, with police patrolling intensified along major highways connecting Prayagraj.
Preparations for Basant Panchami & Amrit Snan
Despite the recent tragedy, preparations are ongoing for Basant Panchami on February 3, which marks the Amrit Snan, one of the most sacred bathing rituals of the Kumbh Mela.
The Chief Minister has directed the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to personally oversee the arrangements and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to prevent overcrowding.
The UP government has urged devotees to adhere to the new guidelines, cooperate with authorities, and prioritize safety while participating in the Kumbh rituals.
