Jagannath Rath Yatra: The ongoing Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri was marred by tragedy early Sunday morning when a stampede near the Gundicha Temple claimed the lives of three devotees and left at least 10 others injured. The incident occurred between 4:00 and 5:00 AM, as thousands of devotees gathered to touch the sacred Nandighosh Rath (Jagannath Rath Yatra).
Follow the Latest Updates Group:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb2Z6498F2pHMwM9YA1S
According to local reports, an overwhelming crowd rushed toward the chariot to seek blessings by touching it. This caused intense pushing and shoving near the barricades set up for crowd control. The barricades collapsed under pressure, and many people fell near the wheels of the chariot, leading to a chaotic and tragic stampede.
Among the deceased are two women and one man, identified as Basanti Sahu, Premkanti Mohanty, and Prabhat Das. The injured were immediately taken to nearby hospitals. However, many are in critical condition, raising concerns that the death toll could rise further.
Eyewitnesses and devotees expressed anger over the lack of medical arrangements at the site. No ambulances were reportedly available at the location when the incident happened, and injured devotees had to be carried manually to the hospital.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of the largest Hindu festivals, attracts millions of pilgrims every year from across India and abroad. Authorities are now under scrutiny for the crowd mismanagement and lack of emergency response preparedness.
Pune Airport Emerges as India’s 9th Busiest Airport Despite Limited Infrastructure
