- One of the most tragic incidents that could happen during a much anticipated, participated, and awaited event is to lose near and dear ones owing to certain uncontrollable happenings despite adequate logistical arrangements during monumental congregations like the Kumbh Mela. The disaster management preparations in the Indian context are a work in progress that cannot lead to the claim that we are error-free or for that matter proclaim nothing wrong can occur. Crowd management is being aided by the advent of newer technology, including AI-based solutions, that has helped the administration to chalk out elaborate arrangements to ensure participating people are not inconvenienced greatly, especially when it comes to religious congregations. But is it all?
PC:Panchjanya
- As you are aware, the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, UP holds great significance for the Sanatanis and the ongoing one occurs once in 144 years. As such, millions of faithful are thronging to take a dip in the Holy Ganga during the auspicious occasion. The UP government has put in place elaborate logistical arrangements to ensure the visiting people have a memorable experience while soaking in religious fervour without worrying too much. Unfortunately, the tragic deaths of devotees because of the stampede have cast a shadow on the ongoing Kumbh despite the administration making admirable logistical arrangements. To be fair, looking for the right perspective when such humongous events as Kumbh are organized while also mourning tragic deaths is par.
PC:Aaj Tak
- Note that around 100mn Kumbh devotees were expected to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya. Overall, 450mn devotees are expected, dwarfing the US population. Most accounts had credited govt for proportionate arrangements. Police said 27,000 AI-powered surveillance cameras are intended to work in a preventive way – guide them to put in barricades and divert human traffic wherever it starts to build up dangerously. On the day of tragedy, this arrangement broke down for some time leading to a stampede, and precious lives were lost. Nonetheless, it’s important to keep this news in perspective as it’s to mourn the loss of life. Yes, the families of the deceased are within their right to question how at all the administration failed to avoid loss of lives.
PC:The Indian Express
Fair assessment will compel us to ask whether, in a gathering as vast as Kumbh, some disorder is almost inevitable. And, when reacting to deaths from stampedes or earthquakes or accidents or murders, our view must be informed by placing the news in a bigger context. Mind you, none of the administration would desperately wish to not have any mishap during events of significant importance. A Kumbh stampede is big news. However, so many crores of devotees came and went unharmed. Deaths from stampedes, even in a crowded country like India, are only a fraction of total deaths from various causes. Sensationalizing without assessing fairly would be unfair. Yes, the administration will learn lessons from the mishap. Let’s pray for the departed souls.
