India Prepares for Massive Kumbh Mela Gathering Amid Safety Concerns
The Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest public gathering, commences this week in India, anticipating over 400 million attendees for a six-week Hindu festival. Millions will participate in ritual dips at the confluence of three rivers. To manage this immense crowd, the Indian government has constructed a temporary city with extensive infrastructure, including numerous restrooms, kitchens, and electricity connections. This event serves as a significant case study in crowd management, given the inherent risks of such large-scale gatherings, as tragically demonstrated by a deadly stampede in 1954.
John Q. Hosedrinker