- Source – Indian Express
- Link – https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/hathras-stampede-godmen-unaccountable-authorities-9432321/
- Syllabus – GS Paper 03
- Topic – Disaster Management
What is the issue?
The tragic Hathras stampede, which claimed over 100 lives, underscores the multifaceted causes of such disasters and the urgent need for preventive measures. Examining the factors behind stampedes and holding authorities accountable is crucial for disaster management.
Understanding Stampedes
- Definition:
- A stampede is a sudden, impulsive mass movement resulting in injuries and deaths due to overcrowding, panic, or perceived danger.
- India has witnessed several stampedes during religious gatherings, festivals, and public events.
- Causes of Death:
- Traumatic asphyxia, heart attacks, crushing injuries, and head or neck injuries are common causes of death during stampedes.
- Psychological triggers, such as panic and the breakdown of cooperative behavior, exacerbate the situation.
- Physical Factors:
- Poorly designed venues, blocked exits, lack of lighting, and high crowd density increase the risk of stampedes.
- Structural failures, like collapsing makeshift bridges and narrow streets with few exits, contribute significantly.
Hathras Stampede: Key Factors
- Causes:
- The Hathras stampede resulted from a combination of structural failures and crowd behavior.
- Unauthorized fireworks, faulty equipment, and inadequate infrastructure played a role.
- Panic triggered by rumors or competition exacerbated the situation.
- Security Issues:
- Under-deployment of staff and lack of surveillance worsened the crisis.
- Effective crowd management requires better coordination among agencies and sufficient resources.
Some Notable Deadly Stampede Disasters in India
| Allahabad Kumbh Mela Stampede (1954) | It is the most fatal Kumbh Mela stampede in history. It resulted in the loss of around 800 lives. |
| Wai Stampede (2005) | The stampede at the Mandhardevi temple in Maharashtra’s Satara district resulted in the death of 340 people. |
| Naina Devi Temple Stampede (2008) | Rumors of landslide started the stampede at the Naina Devi Temple in 2008. It resulted in the death of atleast 145 people which included dozens of women and children. |
| Jodhpur Temple Stampede (2008) | The stampede at the Chamunda Devi Temple resulted in the death of at least 168 people. |
| Allahabad Railway Stampede (2013) | Last-minute change in the platform for the pilgrims who had gathered for the Khumbh Mela, created panic and resulted in a stampede. It led to the loss of around 36 lives. |
| Mumbai pedestrian bridge Stampede (2017) | The stampede at the crowded Pedestrian Bridge connecting the two Mumbai railway stations resulted in the death of 22 people and injured 32. |
| Mata Vaishnav Devi shrine (2022) | The Stampede at the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine resulted in the death 22 people and injured 32. |
NDMA Guidelines for Crowd Management
- Understanding Venue and Stakeholders:
- Analyze event type, crowd demographics, motives, and venue details.
- Involve other stakeholders, including NGOs and local communities.
- Effective Crowd Handling:
- Implement traffic regulations around venues.
- Provide clear route and emergency exit maps.
- Use barricades for crowd control and manage queues.
- Safety and Security Measures:
- Ensure authorized use of electricity and fire safety measures.
- Deploy CCTV surveillance and mini UAVs for large crowds.
- Communication Strategies:
- Utilize public address systems for crowd communication.
- Medical and Emergency Preparedness:
- Set up first-aid rooms and emergency operations centers.
- Role of Event Managers:
- Develop, implement, and review disaster management plans.
Stampedes pose a significant threat to public safety. By addressing structural deficiencies, enhancing security, and implementing effective crowd management strategies, we can prevent such tragedies and protect lives.
