Kumbh Mela: Worshippers feared killed in crowd crush at huge Indian religious festival – BBC News
Several worshippers are feared dead, and many others are injured after a crowd crush at the Kumbh Mela festival in northern India. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of casualties.
The BBC’s Samira Hussain describes the scene as “absolute chaos.” Clothes, shoes, and bags were scattered everywhere as people tried to escape.
Officials expected around 100 million people to attend the biggest bathing day of the festival. Despite the bathing ritual being suspended, tens of thousands are still trying to take the holy dip.
Chief Minister’s Response
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has urged pilgrims to follow official instructions. He advised worshippers to bathe at the nearest riverbank and avoid moving toward the Sangam Nose. He also reassured that people are bathing peacefully at other ghats.
Emergency Response
Ambulances are arriving non-stop at the venue. A BBC reporter counted ten ambulances passing by in just five minutes. The reason behind this rapid response is still unclear.
Families in Distress
Poonam Singh, a festival attendee, was separated from her family during the chaos. Some of her family members have asthma, and she is anxiously waiting for news about them.
What We Know So Far
- Several people are feared dead, and many are injured.
- The tragedy likely occurred when sleeping pilgrims were trampled by others rushing to take a dip.
- Officials had expected an enormous crowd for the festival’s biggest bathing day.
- The Shahi Snan (Royal Bath), a highlight of the festival, has been suspended.
- Despite the suspension, thousands are still attempting to bathe in the river.
Chaos and Confusion
Many devotees struggled to reach their destinations due to unclear directions. Some walked for hours but couldn’t get past checkpoints. Heated arguments broke out between police and worshippers. Even some policemen were seen pleading to pass through barricades.
The Significance of Sangam Nose
The crush occurred near the Sangam Nose, where the Yamuna, Saraswati, and Ganges rivers meet. This is the most important bathing site at the Kumbh Mela. Authorities had expanded the area to accommodate more devotees, but the crowd surge overwhelmed the police.
Overwhelmed Police Presence
Despite a large number of police officers, they struggled to manage the massive crowd. Some devotees climbed or broke barricades to reach the river.
No Official Confirmation Yet
Hours after the tragedy, authorities have not released an official statement about the number of casualties.
Aftermath and Investigation
Scenes of devastation are visible at the festival site. Belongings are scattered everywhere. Families are searching for missing loved ones. Authorities are now facing serious questions about what went wrong.
Authorities Urge Caution
Officials have asked pilgrims to avoid the main confluence and use other bathing spots along the Ganges and Yamuna. They have also requested people not to pressure police officers to access the river.
‘Royal Bath’ Suspended
The ritualistic Shahi Snan, a major attraction, has been called off. The decision was made after officials informed religious leaders about the tragedy. However, thousands of people are still attempting to bathe in the river.
Situation Ongoing
The BBC’s Vikas Pandey reports that despite the chaos, many devotees continue to push forward. The situation remains tense, and more updates are expected soon.
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