Mahakumbh Stampede: Eyewitnesses Recall Hours of Chaos, Panic, and Ignored Cries

Prayagraj, India – What was meant to be a sacred gathering of faith turned into a horrifying nightmare as a deadly stampede at the Mahakumbh Mela left dozens injured and several dead. Eyewitnesses recount the terrifying moments of chaos, panic, and helplessness as cries for help were ignored amidst the surging crowd.

"We Screamed, We Cried, Nobody Listened"

Survivors describe an overwhelming scene of confusion as thousands of devotees attempted to navigate the overcrowded ghats. A sudden surge in the crowd led to a stampede, leaving people struggling to breathe, with many getting crushed underfoot.

"I saw people falling, screaming for help, but nobody stopped. Everyone was just trying to save themselves. It was pure chaos," said Ravi Shankar, a devotee who barely escaped the tragedy.

Another survivor, Meena Devi, recalled how she lost sight of her family in the commotion. "We were holding hands, but within seconds, I was pushed away. I saw elderly people and children trampled. It was heartbreaking."

Hours of Panic and No Immediate Help

According to witnesses, it took emergency responders a long time to reach the affected area. Many injured lay unattended for hours as the crowd continued to push forward.

Local authorities later admitted that crowd control measures were overwhelmed due to the massive turnout. Despite prior warnings about overcrowding, the situation quickly spiraled out of control.

Authorities Under Fire

The incident has sparked criticism of event organizers and the administration for failing to manage the influx of pilgrims. Experts say that better crowd control measures, more barricades, and an efficient emergency response could have prevented the tragedy.

As investigations continue, families of the victims demand justice and accountability for the lapses that led to the disaster.