A devastating stampede at the revered Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar has resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries during the ongoing Navratri celebrations, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred as thousands of devotees gathered for the Hindu festival, with preliminary reports suggesting overcrowding and a sudden surge of pilgrims triggered the deadly crush. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as worshippers attempted to navigate the temple's narrow pathways.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Local police and emergency services rushed to the scene, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Medical staff reported receiving victims with severe crush injuries and breathing difficulties. The exact death toll remains unconfirmed as rescue operations continue.
Historical Context of Temple Tragedies
This incident marks yet another fatal stampede at an Indian religious site, raising fresh concerns about crowd management during major festivals. The Mansa Devi Temple, perched on Bilwa Parvat hill, is particularly vulnerable due to its location and limited access routes.
Government Response
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced compensation for victims' families and ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Opposition leaders have called for stricter safety protocols at religious gatherings.
The stampede occurred during the particularly busy Shardiya Navratri period, when temple attendance typically surges. Authorities had reportedly implemented crowd control measures, but these appear to have been overwhelmed by the sheer volume of devotees.
