Major Changes After Kumbh Stampede: No-Vehicle Zone, New Rules

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• A stampede at Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj left 30 dead and over 60 injured.
• The UP government declared the entire Kumbh area a no-vehicle zone.
• VVIP passes were canceled, and four-wheelers were banned from entry.
• Police were ordered to strengthen crowd control and traffic management.
• Security and transport arrangements are under review for the upcoming Amrit Snan.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Kumbh Mela Stampede Claims 30 Lives

On January 30, a tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj led to the death of 30 devotees and left over 60 injured. The incident occurred at the Sangam area during Mauni Amavasya, a significant bathing day when millions of pilgrims gathered to take a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

Yogi Government’s Strict Guidelines

Following the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a late-night meeting with senior police and administrative officials. The following guidelines were issued:

• Kumbh Declared a No-Vehicle Zone: All types of vehicles are now banned from entering the fair area.
• VVIP Passes Canceled: No special passes will be allowed for vehicle entry.
• Tightened Security Measures: Holding zones have been established at district borders to regulate the crowd.
• Smooth Traffic Flow Ensured: A complete ban on four-wheelers inside the city until February 4.
• Regulated Street Vendors: Authorities will relocate vendors from main roads to designated empty areas.

Administration’s Preparation & Upcoming Events

CM Yogi Adityanath instructed police officers to increase patrolling on key routes and reinforce traffic management. Additionally, he ordered enhanced crowd control measures in religious hubs like Varanasi, Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, and Mirzapur.

The government is also focusing on safety arrangements for the Amrit Snan on February 3, a major bathing event on Basant Panchami. The Chief Secretary and Director General of Police have been directed to review the security preparations in the Mela area.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Kumbh Mela stampede killed 30, injured over 60.
• The entire Kumbh area has been declared a no-vehicle zone.
• VVIP passes canceled, and four-wheelers banned from entry.
• Police intensified patrolling and traffic management.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

See Full Bio