Crowd management efforts ramped up at Maha Kumbh after stampede

Uttar Pradesh government enhances crowd management at Maha Kumbh after stampede, millions of devotees continue to visit.

A day after a stampede at the Maha Kumbh left 30 dead, the Uttar Pradesh government ramped up efforts to ensure crowd management and safety of devotees who continued to flock here in large numbers for the religious gathering.

The devotees braved the pre-dawn chill and dense fog to take a dip in the Sangam and at other ghats on Thursday (January 30, 2025).

More than 55.11 lakh devotees had taken the holy dip till 8 am, according to the Uttar Pradesh government.

Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Anshuman Mishra told PTI that the area would remain a no-vehicle zone until the crowd disperses completely.

"Vehicle passes will not be valid until all devotees have safely left for their destinations. No outside vehicles would be allowed to enter the city until the crowd exits the Mela area," he said.

However, senior officials may grant permission for vehicle entry based on the situation, he said.

Mr. Mishra clarified that essential services such as police administration vehicles, ambulances and suction machines would be allowed entry as they are crucial for the smooth management of the Maha Kumbh.