Prime Minister Modi speaks to UP CM Yogi on Mahakumbh Mela incident, situations under control

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath thrice to monitor the situation at the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Wednesday. He called for immediate support measures for the affected people. Now, situations are well under control. CM Yogi has appealed to the people not to pay attention to rumours, and follow instructions.

A stampede-like situation occurred in the early hours of Wednesday after some barriers broke, leading to injuries, according to Special Executive Officer Akanksha Rana. The situation is not serious and injured are receiving medical treatment.

The Prime Minister called for immediate support measures. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda also spoke with the Chief Minister, assuring him of full support from the Centre.

According to officials, a large number of pilgrims turned up for a holy bath on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, which led to a stampede-like situation. The Uttar Pradesh government expected 10 crore pilgrims to the Maha Kumbh in just one day and had stepped up security in preparation for the ‘Amrit Snan’.

The incident occurred amidst the surge of millions of devotees gathering for the holy dip, prompting the Akharas to call off the event temporarily.

The chaos ensued about a kilometre from the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, when barricades broke, causing panic among the crowd.

The crowd Diversion Plan was implemented at Maha Kumbh and the entry of devotees was halted. Groups of devotees were stopped on the outskirts of the city.

CM Yogi urged devotees to bathe at the ghat closest to them. He appealed to them not to go towards the Triveni Sangam for the holy dip on Mauni Amavasya.

The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya holds immense spiritual significance, especially this year due to the rare ‘Triveni Yog’ celestial alignment, which occurs only once every 144 years.

This alignment has added to the fervour and devotion of the millions who gathered for the ritual. Authorities have since tightened security measures and urged devotees to remain cautious.