Two devotees lost their lives and more than 150 others sustained injuries during a sudden surge in the crowd at the annual Rath Yatra festival in Puri on Thursday. The incidents occurred just before the ceremonial pulling of the chariots, highlighting the challenges of managing large gatherings during the revered event.
The deceased were identified as Anil Das and Surya Prakash Rao. The events unfolded near Marichikot Chhak on the Grand Road, roughly 150 meters from the chariots. According to accounts, Das fell in the dense crowd and showed signs of suffocation. Volunteers promptly transported him to a hospital via ambulance. As devotees worked to clear a path for the vehicle, a second surge took place, causing Rao to fall. He was later pronounced dead at the medical facility.
Eyewitnesses described the situation as chaotic, with security personnel urging people to make way, which contributed to the pressure in the area. The road surface, made slippery by ongoing rainfall, added to the difficulties, leading to numerous falls and injuries among participants.
State authorities reported that seven individuals required medical attention during the festival due to various ailments. One male devotee over 60 years old passed away, with the precise cause under investigation. In a separate incident, another male devotee above 35 years old suffered a cardiac arrest despite prompt medical efforts. Officials attributed many health issues to rain-related conditions, including fatigue, dehydration, and discomfort from the weather.
The government maintained that no stampede or major failure in crowd control occurred. It emphasized effective response measures, noting that unwell devotees were quickly evacuated and shifted to hospitals. Heavy rainfall in Puri, totaling over 233 millimeters in the previous 48 hours, did not discourage large numbers of participants from attending the procession.
Political figures responded to the events, with calls for improved crowd management and devotee safety. A delegation visited the injured in hospital to offer support. The incidents come after similar tragedies in previous years, underscoring the ongoing need for robust arrangements during this major cultural and religious celebration.
Despite the challenges posed by weather and crowds, the Rath Yatra continued, drawing devotees eager to participate in the traditional chariot procession. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide medical assistance as needed.