A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has left 30 pilgrims dead and over 60 injured, prompting the Uttar Pradesh government to enforce stringent measures to prevent further incidents. The chaos unfolded at the Sangam area during Mauni Amavasya, a highly auspicious bathing day, when thousands of devotees pushed against barricades in a rush to reach the holy waters.

Key Measures Implemented:

1. No-Vehicle Zone: The entire fair area has been declared a No-Vehicle Zone, barring entry to all types of vehicles.

2. VVIP Passes Revoked: No special passes will be issued, ensuring no exceptions to the vehicle ban.

3. One-Way Traffic Routes: Movement in and around the fairgrounds has been streamlined into one-way routes to prevent congestion.

4. Restricted Vehicle Entry: Vehicles from neighboring districts are being stopped at Prayagraj's borders to control inflow.

5. Strict Ban Until February 4: No four-wheelers will be allowed into the city until this date.

Government Response & Investigation

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has launched a high-level review of the Maha Kumbh arrangements and instructed the Chief Secretary and DGP to ensure better crowd control. A judicial commission, comprising Justice Harsh Kumar, former DG VK Gupta, and retired IAS officer VK Singh, has been set up to investigate the cause of the stampede.

Additionally, IAS officers Ashish Goyal and Bhanu Goswami, experienced in handling past Kumbh events, have been deployed to oversee management efforts. The government has also announced Rs 25 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased.

Crowd Control Measures

To facilitate safe departures, authorities are working with rail and transport services to deploy additional buses and manage crowd pressure at railway stations and holding areas at city borders. Security has been heightened along major routes to Prayagraj, with increased patrolling and streamlined traffic control.