Stampede is “an impulsive mass movement of a crowd that often results in injuries and deaths” due to Traumatic asphyxia (cessation of respiration) or other injuries.
- Reportedly, religious gatherings accounted for 79% of India's stampedes between 1954-2012.
- Recent examples include the 2024 incidents at Hathras and Kalkaji temple.
Crowd Management
Highlights of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines on crowd management:
- Crowd management strategies and arrangement: Capacity Planning (infrastructure development), Understanding of crowd Behaviour and Crowd Control by restricting or limiting group behaviour.
- Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Identify and address potential hazards.
- Information Management: Clear communication with visitors and stakeholders.
- Safety & Security: CCTV surveillance and emergency exits.
- Medical Services: Equipped facilities and trained personnel.
- Traffic Management: Efficient transportation and clear route marking.
Best Practices in Crowd Management
- Japan and Singapore: Leverages advanced technology such as AI-powered crowd monitoring systems, real-time data analysis, mobile applications etc.
- Saudi Arabia – Hajj Pilgrimage Management: Saudi Arabia uses a combination of crowd flow modeling, designated time slots for rituals etc.