India holds last day of Kumbh celebration amid COVID-19 surge

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India is currently facing a surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths. On Tuesday, the country reported more than 300,000 new cases for a sixth straightday.

Millions have ritually bathed in the Ganges River during the month-long Kumbh Mela - a Hindu festival that began on April 1.

Social distancing norms and other COVID-19 safety measures were flouted once again on Tuesday.

Although the crowds had thinned substantially from previous weeks, not everyone wore masks. The festival official ends on April 30.

Oxygen is in short supply and many hospitals across the country have been running out of beds. Most patients are struggling to recover from their infections at home.

China will assist India in fighting its surge in COVID-19 cases, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Tuesday.

At least nine countries, including China, the United States, France, UK and Germanyhave promised assistance, pledging to send medical supplies and vaccines.

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