At Least 12 Feared Dead in Crush at India’s Kumbh Mela Festival,At least 12 people are feared dead following a tragic incident during India’s Kumbh Mela festival, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The tragedy occurred when a massive crowd surged in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, where millions had gathered for a holy dip in the Ganges River. The Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years in different locations across India, attracts millions of Hindu devotees who come to bathe in the sacred river, believing it will cleanse them of sins.

The crush occurred on a narrow bridge, where large numbers of people were attempting to cross as part of the festival’s rituals. The stampede-like situation led to chaotic scenes, with people trapped underfoot and others falling into the river. Emergency rescue operations were quickly launched, and several injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Officials are investigating the cause of the disaster, which is believed to be linked to the sheer volume of people attending the event, combined with inadequate crowd control measures. The Kumbh Mela, which has a long history of attracting millions of participants, often faces challenges in managing large crowds in congested areas. This is not the first time a tragedy has occurred at the festival, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety during such large-scale events.

The incident has sparked an outpouring of grief and sympathy, with officials and religious leaders urging authorities to strengthen safety protocols for future gatherings. Despite the tragedy, many attendees remained committed to completing their spiritual journey, although the mood was dampened by the events. The Kumbh Mela will continue, but the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by overcrowded religious gatherings.