At least six people died and thirty to fourty people sustained injuries after a stampede broke out at Mansa Devi temple in Uttarakhand's Haridwar on Sunday morning. Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed the fatalities to news agency ANI.
"6 people died in a stampede after a huge crowd gathered at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar. I am leaving for the spot. A detailed report of the incident is awaited," he told the news agency.
According to news reports, a stampede broke out after a large crowd gathered at the temple. The injured have been taken to nearby GD hospital.
After the incident, several ambulances promptly arrived at the scene. The rescue operation is underway.
Rumour of an electric wire breaking caused panic leading to stampede: DM
Speaking to media after tragic incident, Haridwar DM Mayur Dixit said, "We found through photos and videos that someone spread the rumour of electric wire breaking, while looking at the injured or the dead, we did not get any such indication... We will investigate who spread the rumour that caused the stampede and a magisterial inquiry will be set up investigating cameras and other means... The death of 6 people has been confirmed..."
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressded grive over the incident. Taking to X, Dhami wrote, "It is extremely distressing to receive news of a stampede on the route to the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar. Uttarakhand SDRF, local police, and other rescue teams have reached the site and are engaged in relief and rescue operations."
"I am in constant contact with the local administration regarding this matter, and the situation is being closely monitored. I pray to Mother Goddess for the safety and well-being of all devotees," he added.
