Lucknow- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday stated that his government swiftly controlled the situation following the January 29 stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, ensuring timely medical aid and preventing panic among the millions of devotees present.
Speaking at a gathering of Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and Indian Postal Service officials in Lucknow, the Chief Minister emphasized that excessive media coverage of the incident was avoided to prevent chaos, as around eight crore devotees and sadhus were present at the event.
At least 30 people were killed, and 60 others were injured in the stampede at the Sangam ghat on Mauni Amavasya, a key bathing day of the Maha Kumbh. Adityanath highlighted the challenges of managing the ritual bathing order among Akharas and ensuring smooth proceedings at the scheduled time of 4 AM.
Despite the tragedy, all Akharas were prepared to go ahead with the ‘Amrit Snan’, but the administration intervened to postpone the event. “I personally requested them to delay the ritual to manage the situation,” Adityanath said, adding that the area was evacuated by noon, and the ‘snan’ resumed by 2:30 PM.
The Chief Minister underlined the importance of effective crisis management, stating, “In difficult situations, many people panic and give up, but we must develop the strength to make firm decisions with patience and control.” He stressed the need for coordination among devotees, sadhus, and officials.
Sanitation and Crowd Management Measures
Recalling the challenges faced in earlier Kumbh Melas, Adityanath said that sanitation and security had been significantly improved in 2019 and 2025. He mentioned that in previous editions, lack of hygiene and proper facilities had tarnished the event’s image globally.
“In 2019, we aimed to change that perception. We installed one lakh properly managed toilets, ensuring no sewage entered the Ganga or Yamuna,” he said. He also credited the police for their role in maintaining security, introducing four-month training programs for officers.
Record Turnout and Infrastructure Expansion
Adityanath acknowledged that the turnout for Maha Kumbh 2025 exceeded expectations. “We estimated the crowd would double compared to 2019, but the actual numbers surpassed all records. This required a significant expansion in planning and infrastructure,” he stated.
Preparations included expanding the fairgrounds, increasing connectivity, and designating parking areas across multiple districts, including Mirzapur, Bhadohi, and Rae Bareli. “In 2013, a stampede at the railway station claimed 42 lives. Learning from that, we expanded not just Prayagraj Junction but also nine other railway stations and the airport,” he noted.
Adityanath stressed that religious gatherings are inherently disciplined, citing how attendees voluntarily created a green corridor within 15 minutes to allow medical teams to reach the injured after the stampede.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The Chief Minister also highlighted Maha Kumbh’s contribution to the economy, employment, and tourism. He mentioned that UNESCO has taken an interest in studying the event’s environmental impact. “We ensured that no sewage or industrial waste entered the Ganga. In Kanpur, four crore liters of sewage used to flow into the river daily, but we sealed it off three years ago,” he said.
International Participation and Cultural Significance
Maha Kumbh 2025 witnessed high-profile visits from dignitaries, including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, 74 ambassadors, Bhutan’s King, and business leaders. “The event transcended caste, religion, and language barriers, bringing millions together in devotion,” Adityanath noted.
The Uttar Pradesh government invested ₹7,500 crore in the event, with ₹6,000 crore allocated for infrastructure development. Key cultural landmarks, including the Akshayavat and Saraswati Koop corridors, were also developed.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister stated, “Maha Kumbh teaches patience and discipline. Whether for faith or the economy, such events leave a lasting impact and contribute to national development.”
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