The Impressive TimesPrayagraj : A day after a tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj claimed 30 lives and left 60 others injured, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a series of stringent safety measures to prevent further incidents. The stampede occurred on Wednesday as millions of devotees gathered at the Sangam for the sacred Mauni Amavasya snan, one of the most significant bathing days of the Kumbh Mela.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to take immediate steps to regulate crowd movement and ensure the safety of pilgrims attending the ongoing event. As part of the new measures, a no-vehicle zone has been enforced across the key areas of the Mela to prevent congestion. This restriction applies to all private and non-essential vehicles, ensuring that pedestrian movement remains smooth and reducing the risk of bottlenecks that could lead to another tragic incident.
To further manage the influx of devotees, holding areas are being set up at various entry points along the borders of Prayagraj. These areas will act as temporary waiting zones, allowing authorities to control the flow of pilgrims entering the Mela premises. The government has also ensured that return routes remain open and unobstructed, enabling a smoother exit for those leaving after completing their rituals. This step is crucial in preventing overcrowding and minimizing the chances of another stampede-like situation.
Another major decision taken by the government is the suspension of VVIP passes that grant special access to certain areas. Authorities believe that restricting privileged movement will help maintain uniform crowd control and prevent disruptions caused by high-profile visits. Security has also been significantly enhanced, with additional police forces and surveillance teams being deployed across critical zones. Drones and CCTV cameras are being used extensively to monitor crowd density in real time, allowing authorities to respond swiftly to potential risks.
The Uttar Pradesh administration has appealed to pilgrims to cooperate with security personnel and adhere to the new guidelines to ensure a safer environment at the Kumbh Mela. Officials have urged devotees to plan their visit wisely, avoid peak hours, and follow designated pathways to prevent unnecessary crowding. The Kumbh Mela, a spiritual gathering that attracts millions of devotees, presents unique logistical challenges, but with the newly implemented measures, the state government aims to ensure a more secure and orderly experience for all attendees in the days ahead.
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