In a tragic incident at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, a stampede led to the death of 30 people and injuries to over 90 others. The UP government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the kin of the deceased. Adityanath has also formed a three-member commission, headed by former Justice of the Allahabad High Court, to investigate the incident and suggest measures to prevent such accidents in the future. While the government has started rescue operations, questions are being raised about the cause of the stampede.
Stampede at Mahakumbh: Yogi Adityanath Announces Compensation, Forms Inquiry Commission
A tragic stampede occurred at the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday, January 20, 2023. The incident took place during the evening 'Brahm Parvat Snan,' considered one of the holiest dips during the festival. According to reports, the stampede occurred when a large crowd of devotees gathered at the pontoon bridge connecting the Sangam to the Anandeshwar Park.
As of now, 30 people have been confirmed dead, and over 90 have sustained injuries. The injured are being treated at various hospitals in the city.
Background
The Mahakumbh is the world's largest religious gathering, held every 12 years in the cities of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. It is believed that bathing in the Sangam, where the rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati meet, absolves one's sins and grants salvation.
Response from Government
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the kin of the deceased and Rs 5 lakh to the injured. He has also formed a three-member commission, headed by former Justice of the Allahabad High Court, to investigate the incident and suggest measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
The government has deployed additional police and paramilitary forces to the area to maintain order and facilitate rescue operations.
Questions and Answers
1. What caused the stampede?
The exact cause of the stampede is still under investigation, but it is believed to have occurred due to a combination of factors, including overcrowding, slippery surfaces, and inadequate crowd management.
2. What measures are being taken by the government to prevent such incidents in the future?
The government has formed an inquiry commission to investigate the incident and suggest measures to prevent future accidents. The commission is expected to submit its report within a month.
3. What has been the response from the public?
The public has expressed shock and grief over the incident. Many have questioned the crowd management arrangements and demanded accountability from the authorities.
4. Are there any other stampedes that have occurred at the Mahakumbh in the past?
Yes, there have been several stampedes at the Mahakumbh in the past, leading to numerous casualties. In 2013, a stampede at the Allahabad Mahakumbh killed 45 people.
5. What lessons can be learned from past incidents?
Past stampedes at the Mahakumbh have highlighted the importance of crowd management, adequate infrastructure, and emergency preparedness. The government needs to learn from these incidents and take all necessary steps to prevent future tragedies.
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