Prayagraj Maha Kumbh Stampede: Government Implements Stringent Safety Measures
Following the tragic stampede at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, which resulted in 30 deaths and left 60 others injured, the Uttar Pradesh government has enforced strict measures to prevent further incidents. The entire fairground has been declared a no-vehicle zone, and five major policy changes have been introduced to improve crowd management.
Key Changes Implemented:
- No-Vehicle Zone: All vehicles are strictly prohibited within the Maha Kumbh fair area.
- VVIP Passes Revoked: No special privileges will be granted for vehicle entry.
- One-Way Routes Introduced: Devotees must follow a designated one-way movement system.
- Restricted Vehicle Entry: Vehicles from neighboring districts are stopped at Prayagraj’s borders.
- Ban on Four-Wheelers Until February 4: Entry of private and public four-wheelers is suspended to ease congestion.
Strengthened Administrative Oversight
To ensure smooth execution, experienced bureaucrats Ashish Goyal and Bhanu Goswami, who played key roles in managing the 2019 Ardh Kumbh, have been deployed. Additionally, five special secretary-rank officers with expertise in large-scale event management have been assigned to oversee the fair’s operations.
CM Yogi Adityanath’s Directives
In response to the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered an extensive review of Maha Kumbh arrangements. He has directed the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to assess safety measures, ensuring smooth crowd movement and transportation for returning pilgrims. Officials have been instructed to work closely with railway and transport authorities to facilitate safe departures.
Crowd Control and Investigation
Holding areas with essential amenities have been set up at city borders to regulate crowd inflow. Increased patrolling and stricter traffic control have also been enforced on key routes leading to Prayagraj. A three-member judicial commission, including Justice Harsh Kumar, former DGP VK Gupta, and retired IAS officer VK Singh, has been appointed to investigate the stampede.
Additionally, the Chief Minister has announced a compensation of ₹25 lakh for the families of the deceased.