LUCKNOW, Mar 3: On Monday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that his administration responded promptly to manage the aftermath of the January 29 stampede during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, providing timely medical assistance to victims and averting widespread panic.
While addressing officials from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and the Indian Postal Service in Lucknow, Adityanath remarked, “We ensured the incident was not excessively publicized, considering that there were eight crore devotees and sadhus present in Prayagraj, as any panic could have exacerbated the situation.”
The stampede, which occurred at the Sangam ghat on Mauni Amavasya, a significant bathing day during the Maha Kumbh, resulted in at least 30 casualties and left 60 others injured.
Adityanath highlighted that, in addition to millions of devotees, seers and sadhus from 13 Akhadas were also intended to participate in the traditional ‘Amrit Snan’ (holy dip) that morning.
He acknowledged that two major challenges often emerge during such events: establishing the bathing sequence among the Akharas, which historically has led to conflicts, and ensuring the ritual commences at the designated time of 4 AM.
Despite the tragedy, all Akhadas were ready to proceed with the ‘snan’, but the administration intervened and postponed the event.
“I personally urged them to delay the ritual to manage the circumstances,” Adityanath stated, noting that officials monitored the crowds closely, evacuated the Sangam area by noon, and ensured that the ‘snan’ resumed by 2:30 PM.
He stressed the significance of effective crisis management, declaring, “In challenging situations, many individuals panic and give up, yet we must cultivate the strength to make resolute decisions with patience and composure.”
The chief minister also underscored the necessity of efficient coordination among all stakeholders, including devotees, sadhus, and administrative officials.
“I took the initiative to engage in discussions to maintain order and facilitate the smooth execution of the event,” he remarked.
The Maha Kumbh, hosted once every 12 years, draws millions of pilgrims from around the globe, presenting a significant crowd management challenge for authorities. This year, the Uttar Pradesh government reported that over 66 crore pilgrims attended the religious event. (Agencies)
