New Delhi: A tragic stampede at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam, claimed at least nine lives early Saturday morning, leaving several others injured. The incident occurred during heavy rush on the occasion of Ekadashi, an auspicious day that drew thousands of devotees, most of them women and children.
Videos from the temple showed chaotic scenes as devotees, holding puja baskets, were trapped in a narrow passage and struggled to escape. Several people fell unconscious amid the commotion, while others cried for help. Medical teams rushed to the spot, providing first aid and moving the injured to nearby hospitals.
Officials said the tragedy was exacerbated by the lack of crowd management and ongoing construction work near the temple. Authorities later confirmed that the privately managed temple had not informed the district administration in advance about the large gathering expected on Ekadashi.
Governor S Abdul Nazeer expressed grief over the deaths and directed officials to ensure the best medical care for the injured. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu described the loss of lives as “heartbreaking” and extended his condolences to the victims’ families. He instructed officials to oversee relief operations and provide immediate assistance to the affected devotees.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan called the incident “deeply distressing” and announced that an inquiry will be conducted to identify lapses. He urged the Endowments Department to implement stronger crowd control measures during festive occasions, particularly in temples managed by private bodies.
Andhra minister Nara Lokesh, who is visiting the site, assured that the state government is providing the best possible treatment to the injured. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences and wishing a speedy recovery to those hurt.
The incident has once again raised concerns about safety arrangements and coordination during major religious gatherings in the state.
