Tragic Stampede at Mansa Devi Temple Claims Eight Lives

Incident Overview

Uttarakhand: The tragic stampede at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar has resulted in eight fatalities, with 30 individuals reported injured. Eyewitness footage captured the scene as the injured were swiftly transported to medical facilities for urgent care.

Rescue Operations

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local fire services promptly arrived to conduct rescue efforts. The chaos unfolded around 9 am on Sunday when a massive influx of devotees was making their way to the hilltop shrine. One survivor recounted, “Just 20-25 steps from the temple, the crowd surged uncontrollably. I fell alongside 10 to 12 others... I managed to find three family members, but two are still unaccounted for.”

Official Statements

Mahant Ravindra Puri, the President of the Mansa Devi Temple Trust, clarified that there are three routes to the temple: a ropeway, a vehicular path, and an ancient trail from Har Ki Pauri. He emphasized, “This incident was not caused by electrocution, and we will provide support to the families of the victims.”

Investigation and Current Status

Earlier in the day, SSP Pramendra Singh Dobal reported that initial information indicated injuries among several individuals, prompting immediate police intervention. Approximately 35 people were taken to hospitals, with six confirmed dead. The stampede is believed to have been triggered by a rumor of an electric shock occurring on the stairs leading to the temple. Investigations are ongoing. As of now, the temple has reopened for visitors, with enhanced safety measures implemented.