Maha Kumbh Stampede: Yogi Adityanath Enforces No-Vehicle Zone, Bans VIP Passes to Control Crowd Chaos

Prayagraj – The Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, turned tragic on January 29, when a stampede claimed 30 lives and injured over 60 devotees at the sacred Sangam. As a massive crowd gathered for Mauni Amavasya, thousands surged forward, leading to a deadly rush at the barricades.

In response, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken swift action, imposing a strict no-vehicle zone and banning all VVIP passes to prevent any further crowd-related incidents.

A Tragedy in the Heart of Faith

For millions of pilgrims, the Maha Kumbh is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a holy dip in the Sangam waters. However, Wednesday’s rush turned into a nightmare as devotees were caught in a crush of bodies, struggling for space and air.

Authorities reported that the stampede was triggered when security barricades collapsed under immense pressure. Many devotees lost their footing in the chaos, while others suffocated due to overcrowding.

Yogi Government’s Emergency Measures

1. Judicial Probe into the Stampede

   • A detailed investigation has been ordered to determine security lapses and mismanagement.
   • Authorities will analyze crowd patterns to prevent a recurrence.

2. Complete No-Vehicle Zone in Mela Areas

   • All four-wheelers are banned from entering Prayagraj until February 4.
   • Vehicles from neighboring districts will be halted at border checkpoints to reduce congestion.

3. No More VIP Privileges – Equal Access for All

   • No special passes will be issued, ensuring uniform movement restrictions for everyone, including VIPs.
   • The decision aims to prevent overcrowding in key locations, making space available for ordinary pilgrims.

4. Crowd Dispersal & Vendor Shifts

   • Police have been ordered to redirect devotees in a phased manner to prevent traffic pileups.
   • Street vendors operating in key areas will be moved to open grounds, allowing uninterrupted pedestrian flow.

5. Emergency Food & Water Stations Set Up

   • Holding zones will be created with adequate water, food, and shelter for waiting pilgrims.
   • Key highways such as Ayodhya-Prayagraj, Kanpur-Prayagraj, and Varanasi-Prayagraj will remain clear for emergency use.

Amrit Snan on February 3 – Safety First

With the sacred Basant Panchami Snan approaching on February 3, the government is leaving no room for error. Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police have been instructed to personally assess the security measures before the event.

The administration urges all pilgrims to follow the new guidelines, ensuring a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience at the Maha Kumbh.