Maha Kumbh: "Will make better arrangements for Basant Panchami," says UP DGP Prashant Kumar

Prayagra (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 30 (ANI): In the wake of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh, authorities in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj have assured that enhanced arrangements will be made for the upcoming Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan) on February 3.

The ongoing Maha Kumbh, one of the largest gatherings in the world, witnessed a stampede that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, claiming 30 lives and injuring several others, prompting an outpouring of condolences from political leaders.

As per the latest update, at least 30 people were killed and 60 injured in the pre-dawn stampede, said the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna. He said 25 bodies have been identified.

The incident occurred as millions of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to take a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya, which also marks the day of the Second Shahi Snan.

On the judicial inquiry commission formed to probe the Maha Kumbh stampede, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar told ANI on Thursday, "State govt has set up a judicial inquiry commission. Presently, we came here to discuss how we can conduct Basant Panchami 'Amrit Snan' well and how we can provide better facilities..."

DGP Kumar also said they visited the scene of the incident in Prayagraj and also met people undergoing treatment at the Medical College.

"No one admitted here is critical, some of them have sustained fractures...we will make better arrangements for Basant Panchami and ensure such incidents don't happen again," DGP Kumar said.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Thursday, said that the state government has taken the stampede incident at Mahakumbh very seriously and has set up a judicial inquiry commission to investigate the matter.

Speaking on the incident, Pathak stated, "The government has taken the incident of Prayagraj very seriously. A judicial inquiry commission has been set up. Whoever is found guilty after the investigation report will be subjected to strict action."

Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that a judicial committee will submit its report to the state government within a time limit. 

Other significant bathing dates left in the Maha Kumbh include February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri). (ANI)