PRAYAGRAJ: A stampede took place early on January 29 at the Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, during the Mahakumbh Mela. Thousands of devotees had gathered for a holy dip in the Ganga river on Mauni Amavasya when the incident happened. Reports suggest several people may have died, and many others were injured.

The stampede started after some barriers near the Sangam broke, causing panic among the crowd. Ambulances were sent to the area, and the injured were taken to a nearby hospital inside the Mela grounds. Officials are still working to find out the exact number of people affected.

Special Executive Officer Akanksha Rana said, "Some people were injured when the barriers broke. They are receiving treatment, and the situation is under control now."

Rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities are trying to manage the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to ensure immediate help is provided to the victims and their families.

The Mahakumbh Mela, known as one of the largest gatherings in the world, started on January 13 and will go on until February 26. Mauni Amavasya is one of the most important days of the event, drawing huge crowds of devotees.

Authorities have temporarily stopped the holy dip for senior religious leaders (Mahamandaleshwars) as a safety measure. Additional precautions are being taken to avoid further incidents.

This unfortunate  incident has left the nation shocked and mourning the lives lost during what was meant to be a sacred occasion.

The Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati meet, is considered the holiest site by Hindus. Many believe that taking a dip here during the Maha Kumbh, especially on sacred days like Mauni Amavasya, cleanses sins and leads to salvation (moksha).