😢 Tragedy Strikes the Maha Kumbh Mela 😢
In a devastating turn of events, a stampede at the world-renowned Maha Kumbh Mela in India has claimed the lives of dozens of devotees and left many more injured. The incident occurred on Wednesday as millions of pilgrims gathered for a \"holy dip\" at the confluence of the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.
\"We came here seeking blessings and salvation, but instead witnessed unimaginable chaos,\" shared one distraught pilgrim. Reports indicate that around 30 people lost their lives, with some sources suggesting the death toll may be closer to 40. Over 90 individuals were injured in the crush.
Authorities React 🚨
The Uttar Pradesh state Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, announced the formation of a three-member judicial commission to probe the incident. \"The government has decided that a judicial inquiry of the incident will be done… and submit its report within a time limit,\" he stated.
Massive Gathering 🙏
Despite the tragedy, the Maha Kumbh Mela continues to draw unprecedented crowds. On Wednesday alone, over 76 million people took a dip in the sacred waters. Since the festival began two weeks ago, nearly 280 million have participated, including notable figures like federal ministers, industrialists, and celebrities.
The festival, held every 12 years, is expected to attract around 400 million devotees by 2025. For many, taking a dip at the holy confluence absolves them of sins and offers salvation from the cycle of birth and death.
Calls for Better Management 🛠️
Opposition leaders and local media are urging the government to improve festival arrangements to prevent such tragedies. \"There is much scope for improving crowd management at the Kumbh,\" noted the Hindustan Times in an editorial.
With three more 'royal dips' scheduled before the festival ends, there is an urgent need for enhanced planning and deployment of resources. \"A repeat of the tragedy must be prevented,\" the editorial emphasized.
Our hearts go out to all those affected by this heartbreaking incident. 🕊️
Reference(s):
India orders probe into Hindu festival stampede that killed dozens
cgtn.com
