Millions of devotees visiting ongoing Maha Kumbh mela in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj. At least 18 people, including 11 women and five children, died after a stampede at the New Delhi Railway station last night. Railway authorities have denied that the stampede took place after a rumour spread among people that the special Express train was going to arrive on a different platform. Police say platforms number 13 and 14 were already crowded as many people were waiting to board two trains – Magdh Express and another going towards Jammu – which were delayed. During this time, more than a thousand general tickets were bought by passengers to go to MahaKumbh. Officials say they have made a smooth entry and exit for passengers with the help of colour-coded areas, and no new protocols have been enforced. The mela is held every 12 years and is attended by thousands of people from across the country and the world, including politicians, royalty and sports stars. It is held on the banks of the River Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, and is the biggest Hindu festival of the year.
