According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), the stampede at the Kumbh Mela festival in India has claimed the lives of at least 15 people, many more are injured. "Other people are currently being treated," reported a doctor at the festival site in the town of Prayagraj. Rescue teams took the injured away from the scene of the incident, where clothing, shoes, and other belongings were scattered on the ground.
The Kumbh Mela festival opened on January 13 and continues until February 26 on the banks of the river in the town of Prayagraj in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It takes place every 12 years. This year, authorities were expecting participation from 400 million people. "As of now, at least 15 people have died."