India wakes up to yet another tragedy, this time at the Venkateshwara Temple in Kashibugga, Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, where a stampede claimed at least 9 lives, including 2 children & left several others injured.
The horrific incident unfolded early Saturday morning as massive crowds of devotees gathered for prayers, leading to chaos & panic when a railing in the queue collapsed, causing people to fall & trample one another.
Rescue teams & local authorities rushed to the scene to control the situation, as images of chaos & grief spread rapidly.
The Kashibugga Venkateshwara Temple, spread over 12 acres and often overcrowded on weekends, has long been criticised for its lack of crowd management despite repeated warnings from local safety officials.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed sorrow, calling the incident extremely heartbreaking & directed officials to ensure speedy medical treatment for the injured.
He also instructed district administrators & public representatives to personally monitor the ongoing relief & rescue operations at the site.
This marks the 3rd major stampede in Andhra Pradesh this year alone, raising serious questions about India’s repeated failures in managing public gatherings particularly in temples & religious events where safety measures remain grossly inadequate.
