Stampede at India’s Kumbh Mela Festival Kills 30, Dozens Injured

At least 30 people were killed and dozens more injured in a stampede at the Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, India, early Wednesday morning. The deadly incident occurred as a surging crowd of pilgrims, rushing for a sacred ritual bathing, broke through a police cordon and trampled bystanders.

Many victims, including elderly people and women, were crushed underfoot in the chaos. Rescue teams navigated through piles of clothing and belongings to carry the wounded to safety, while police removed the bodies of the victims. A total of 90 people were injured in the tragedy. The Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, attracts millions of devotees every 12 years.