Key Points:
- Six people killed when cargo ropeway cable snapped at Pavagadh Hill temple in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district
- Victims include two lift operators, two construction workers, and two others trapped in cabin during 3:30 PM accident
- Technical committee formed to investigate cable failure; accidental death case registered
- Tourist ropeway services suspended indefinitely as precautionary measure amid adverse weather
- Major pilgrimage site attracting 2.5 million annual visitors faces safety scrutiny after tragedy
Panchmahal: A devastating accident at Gujarat’s famous Pavagadh Shaktipeeth claimed six lives on Saturday when a cargo ropeway cable snapped, sending a material-carrying trolley crashing to the ground. The tragedy has raised serious questions about safety protocols at one of India’s most visited religious destinations.
Horrific Accident Details Emerge
The fatal incident occurred at 3:30 PM on Saturday when the cable wire of a goods ropeway suddenly broke while transporting construction materials for ongoing temple renovations. Panchmahal Collector Ajay Dahiya confirmed that the cabin was carrying five people and returning from the hilltop when the cable snapped near the fourth tower, causing it to crash into tower number one.
The victims have been identified as:
- Two lift operators working the cargo system
- Two construction workers involved in temple renovation
- Two other individuals present during the operation
“The cabin came crashing to the ground and the six persons who were on board were killed,” confirmed SP Haresh Dudhat, adding that all bodies have been retrieved and sent for post-mortem examination.
Immediate Response and Rescue Operations
Emergency response teams including police, fire brigade, and rescue personnel rushed to the accident site immediately after receiving reports of the tragedy. Cranes were deployed to remove the wreckage and allow fire department personnel to extract the bodies from the mangled cabin.
A police official revealed that “the occupants of the goods ropeway cabin were killed due to impact as well as injuries from the metal of the cabin during the crash,” highlighting the severity of the accident.
Technical Investigation Committee Formed
Collector Ajay Dahiya has ordered the formation of a technical committee to investigate the exact cause of the cable failure. The administration has registered an accidental death case at Pavagadh police station while launching a comprehensive probe into potential negligence.
“A probe has been launched into the matter. In case there is negligence found during the probe, action will be taken accordingly,” stated SP Dudhat, indicating possible legal consequences if safety violations are discovered.
Tourist Ropeway Services Suspended
As an immediate safety measure, authorities have suspended all ropeway operations for tourists until further notice. The decision was taken considering:
- Adverse weather conditions with strong winds prevalent in the area
- Safety concerns following the cargo ropeway failure
- Need for comprehensive safety audit before resuming operations
The public ropeway service had already been shut since morning due to inclement weather conditions, preventing what could have been a much larger tragedy.
Pavagadh: Major Pilgrimage Destination
The Pavagadh Hill temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, stands at approximately 800 meters height and attracts around 2.5 million visitors annually. The site offers pilgrims two options to reach the summit:
- Climbing 2,000 steps up the hillside
- Using cable car services for easier access
The hill rises from Champaner in three stages with its plateau at 1,471 feet altitude, making it a significant religious and tourist destination in Gujarat.
Safety Concerns and Previous Incidents
This tragic accident has raised serious questions about safety protocols and maintenance standards at religious sites across India. The cargo ropeway was being operated by a contractor appointed by the temple trust, according to Kalika Mata Trust President Surendra Patel.
“The unfortunate incident occurred when the operators were checking the material ropeway… It slipped and six persons were killed,” Patel explained, suggesting the accident happened during routine inspection procedures.
Impact on Local Community
The tragedy has created an atmosphere of mourning and panic throughout the temple premises and surrounding areas. Local residents and regular pilgrims are expressing concerns about:
- Adequacy of safety measures at the religious site
- Regular maintenance protocols for ropeway systems
- Emergency response capabilities in remote hill locations
Administrative Response and Compensation
The administration has assured all possible assistance to the families of the deceased, while promising a thorough investigation into the accident’s causes. Officials emphasize that the real reason behind the accident will only become clear after technical investigation is completed.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of rigorous safety standards and regular maintenance at religious sites that handle millions of visitors annually. As investigations continue, the focus remains on preventing such tragedies while ensuring the safety of pilgrims and workers at this sacred destination.
