Reasons of Stampede in Kumbh Mela

A horrifying incident unfolded at the sacred Kumbh Mela, as a stampede claimed multiple lives. While the government has not yet released the official death toll, various theories are emerging about the cause of the disaster.

The primary reason being cited is the presence of large metal garbage bins near the barricades. These bins were placed for the convenience of devotees, but during the early hours around 2 AM, some pilgrims heading for the holy dip failed to notice them in the darkness. As a result, several people tripped and fell, triggering the stampede, according to multiple eyewitnesses.

The tragedy occurred one kilometer away from the main Triveni Sangam bathing ghat. Witnesses claim that the garbage bins obstructed the movement of pilgrims even from a distance of two kilometers, and as the crowd density increased near the ghat, panic and pushing led to the disaster.

Apart from this, poor crowd management is also being blamed. Despite knowing that a massive number of devotees would gather at the main bathing ghat (Sector-2), the authorities reportedly failed to deploy additional personnel or make special arrangements. Eyewitnesses claim that at the time of the stampede, only 12-15 police officers were present in the area, which was insufficient to control the situation.

Currently, around 12 crore devotees are present at Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela. By 8 AM today, 2.78 crore people had taken the holy dip. The government has stated that so far, 20 crore devotees have participated in this once-in-144-years sacred event.

Mouni Amavasya, observed today, holds immense spiritual significance. Hindus believe that bathing in the Triveni Sangam on this day cleanses all sins. This belief led to millions of devotees rushing towards the main ghat, many carrying luggage on their heads, unaware of the obstacles beneath them. The iron garbage bins caused several to trip, resulting in a deadly stampede that claimed many lives.