Stampede at Andhra Pradesh Temple: A major tragedy struck the Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, on Saturday. A stampede during the morning hours claimed the lives of ten devotees. The incident occurred on Ekadashi, a day considered highly auspicious, which had drawn a large number of pilgrims to the temple.
The crowd swelled rapidly within the temple complex, leading to chaos. For reasons yet to be fully ascertained, people began to push and run, resulting in a fatal stampede. Shocking details about the causes of the disaster are now emerging. Reports indicate that the temple was filled with several times its capacity, and proper crowd management arrangements were not in place.
Overwhelming Crowd Beyond Capacity
While the temple administration had made arrangements for about 3,000 devotees, approximately 15,000 had gathered due to the Ekadashi festival. The administration failed to control the massive influx. A significant lapse in security and management by the police and administration is being cited as a primary reason for the tragedy. Several other devotees were injured in the crush and were rushed to nearby hospitals.
About the Venkateswara Temple
The Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga is spread over five acres. Locals often refer to it as “Chhota Tirupati.” The temple was constructed by a devotee, Hari Mukunda Panda, who drew inspiration from the model of the Tirumala Temple.
Condolences and Relief Announced
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu have expressed their grief over the incident. PM Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for each injured person. He also wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
