Fatal Stampede at Puri Rath Yatra: Three Killed, More Injuries Feared
The tragedy has left the coastal pilgrim town in grief, with fears that the injury toll may climb. Authorities are scrambling to assist victims and investigate the lapses that led to this heartbreaking event.
A fatal stampede marred the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri claiming three lives and injuring at least six devotees. The tragedy struck near the Gundicha Temple during the annual chariot procession, where thousands had gathered to honor Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. With fears of a rising injury toll, the incident has plunged Puri into mourning, prompting urgent investigations into crowd management failures at one of India’s holiest festivals.
Chaos Amidst Devotion
Devotees, eager to pull the sacred chariots, pushed against barricades, triggering the stampede. The three deceased, whose identities are yet to be confirmed, succumbed to crushing injuries, while the injured were rushed to Puri District Hospital. Authorities warn that the number of casualties may increase as medical teams assess the situation amid ongoing rescue efforts.
STORY | 3 killed, 50 injured in stampede near Shree Gundicha Temple in Odisha's Puri
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 29, 2025
READ: https://t.co/DBbESsCYtQ
VIDEO | Visuals from Puri district hospital where injured are being admitted. pic.twitter.com/0b9TLnBZUB
Swift Response, Ongoing Efforts
Local police, supported by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and fire services, launched immediate rescue operations, clearing debris and assisting trapped devotees. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a probe to examine lapses in crowd control, with senior officials tasked to submit a report within a week. Community volunteers are aiding efforts, and helplines are operational to support anxious families searching for loved ones.
Safety Protocols Under Scrutiny
Despite prior planning, inadequate barricades and limited security personnel struggled to contain the fervor of the massive gathering. Similar incidents in past years, including a near-stampede in 2018, highlight the need for robust safety measures, such as real-time crowd monitoring and additional exit points.
Mourning a Sacred Festival
Puri’s festive spirit has been overshadowed by grief as the community processes this loss. The Odisha government has pledged compensation for victims’ families and promised reforms to prevent future tragedies. As investigations continue, the Rath Yatra tragedy serves as a somber call for enhanced safety at sacred gatherings.
