Yogi Government imposes no-vehicle zone, bans VVIP passes after Maha Kumbh stampede

The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced stricter safety measures after a tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The incident, which occurred on January 29, 2025, left 30 people dead and 60 injured as large crowds gathered for the holy dip on Mauni Amavasya.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held an emergency meeting with senior officials and ordered five new safety rules to prevent such incidents in the future.

Key safety measures

1. Judicial Probe and Traffic Control

   • A judicial investigation has been ordered into the stampede.
   • Traffic flow must remain smooth, and unnecessary halts should be avoided.

2. Clear Return Routes

   • Police have been ordered to increase patrolling and keep major highways clear, including:
     • Ayodhya-Prayagraj
     • Kanpur-Prayagraj
     • Lucknow-Pratapgarh-Prayagraj
     • Varanasi-Prayagraj
   • Return routes from Prayagraj must remain open.

3. Ban on Vehicles in Mela Area

   • No four-wheelers will be allowed inside Prayagraj until February 4.
   • Vehicles from other districts will be stopped at the borders.

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1. No Special Passes

   • No VVIP passes will be issued for vehicle entry.
   • No exceptions will be made for anyone.

2. Street Vendors Relocated

   • Vendors operating on roads will be shifted to other locations.
   • Devotees will be allowed to move freely, with food and water facilities available at designated areas.

Preparations for Basant Panchami snan

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also confirmed that the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami will take place on February 3. The Chief Secretary and Director General of Police will review all arrangements to ensure safety.