India crowd crushes: dozens feared dead at Kumbh Mela religious festival latest updates
Briefly

On January 29, at the Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, India, a devastating crowd crush occurred when a barrier broke, leading to chaos among the throngs of worshippers. As hundreds of millions flocked to bathe at the holy confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, at least 38 people were confirmed dead, with some reports suggesting that the number could reach 100. Rescue efforts were implemented quickly, with ambulances responding to the scene amid ongoing injuries, highlighting the severe risks associated with significant overcrowding during such spiritual events.
Despite the fears of crowd crushes, hundreds of millions attended the Kumbh Mela, leading to at least 38 fatalities, with reports suggesting the figure could rise.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes when a barrier broke at the Sangam, causing crowd surges that left many trapped and injured amid the milling crowds.
Ambulances quickly responded to ongoing crowd injuries, with local officials reporting at least 100 injuries and numerous fatalities as people bathed for a holy ritual.
In the hours leading up to the tragedy, Prayagraj experienced a continuous influx of pilgrims, significantly exceeding government expectations and intensifying risks of overcrowding.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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