A stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela religious festival in Uttar Pradesh, India, has led to fears of multiple casualties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, while local officials reported that more than seven fatalities occurred amid a surge of festival attendees. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as devotees attempted to breach barricades, resulting in a deadly crush. Although officials are managing massive crowds, the festival continues, with millions participating over six weeks. This incident adds to the festival's concerning history of crowd-related tragedies, notably the bridge collapse in 2013 that resulted in numerous deaths.
During the festival, held every 12 years, Hindu pilgrims bathe at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, which are considered sacred.
Eyewitnesses told local reporters that the surge of people suddenly trampled sleeping pilgrims.
My deepest condolences to the devotees who have lost their loved ones, Prime Minister Modi wrote on X.
The festival has a history of stampedes. During the last Maha Kumbh Mela in 2013, at least three dozen people died when a bridge in the train station collapsed.
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