Key Points
- At least six people have died and over 35 injured in a stampede at Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar.
- The tragedy occurred early Sunday during the month of Shravan a peak pilgrimage season.
- Authorities believe the stampede was triggered by rumors of an electric current hazard.
- Rescue operations led by SDRF, police, and emergency teams are ongoing.
- Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and PM Narendra Modi have expressed their condolences.
- The situation is under continuous monitoring by local administration.
Haridwar: A tragic stampede at the revered Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar early Sunday morning resulted in at least six deaths and more than 35 injuries, sending shockwaves through the pilgrim city and across the country.
How Did the Stampede Happen?
The incident occurred around 9:30AM, when a massive crowd of devotees gathered for the auspicious Hindu month of Shravan rushed to enter the narrow stairways of the temple. According to police and Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey, panic broke out following rumors that a high-voltage electric wire had snapped and fallen near the crowded temple path. Fears of electrocution led to sudden chaos as people jostled to escape, with many being trampled or injured in the crush.
Eyewitnesses described a sudden swell of devotees near the staircases leading to the sanctum. “People started pushing in all directions; I fell trying to get out,” one injured devotee told reporters. The combination of a slippery, rain-soaked slope and narrow access further worsened the bottleneck.
Emergency Response
Police responded quickly, launching a joint rescue and relief operation along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Videos from the site showed ambulances ferrying the injured ranging from minor bruises to critical trauma to nearby hospitals. At least 35 people were rescued, and those with serious injuries were sent to higher-level medical centers for advanced care.
Official Statements
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed the incident and said rescue teams are fully engaged on the ground. “The situation is being constantly monitored. I pray to Mother Goddess for the safety and well-being of all devotees,” Dhami posted on social media.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu have extended their condolences, expressing deep sorrow for the families affected and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
Crowd Management Challenges
The Mansa Devi Temple, especially during Shravan month, sees tens of thousands of pilgrims from across India. Large gatherings on sloping, rain-soaked paths, combined with poor crowd control and rumors, have previously led to similar incidents at other religious sites.
Current Status
The situation at the temple is now described as “under control.” Police continue to monitor the area to prevent further risk, and an official investigation into the exact cause has commenced. Authorities are urging calm and patience among the public as further details emerge.
