Ahmedabad: A moment of celebration turned chaotic during the 148th Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad when a male elephant, part of the traditional procession, became agitated and ran wild, injuring three people. The incident occurred at approximately 9:33 AM in the Khadia area, reportedly triggered by loud music and whistles in the crowded lanes. Following it, two other elephants also started to run away from the designated route.
Out of the 18 decorated elephants participating in this year’s yatra, one male elephant suddenly lost control and veered off the main route into a side lane. Panic ensued as the animal charged through the narrow streets packed with devotees. “Seeing the elephant run toward them, people started fleeing in every direction,” a witness said.
The mahavat (elephant handler) leaped from the elephant and ran nearly 100 meters in an attempt to calm the distressed animal. With the help of two female elephants and zoo officials, the elephant was eventually subdued. It has since been safely secured in a designated area in Khadia and removed from the procession.
Three individuals were reportedly injured in the incident, one of whom has been admitted to SVP Hospital. Among the injured is a television cameraman who was caught in the commotion, as per the reports.
In response to the event, authorities have decided to halt all DJ music and loudspeakers along the yatra route to prevent further distress to the animals. Police have instructed all trucks and music vehicles to mute their sound systems immediately.
Officials said that quick action by the police and handlers helped avert a larger tragedy. The rest of the yatra is continuing without the male elephant and the two female elephants that were involved in bringing it under control.
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