Puri: A stampede-like situation occurred during the Rath Yatra in Puri on Thursday left more than 300 devotees seriously injured, triggering chaos and raising fresh concerns about crowd management at the annual event. The incident occurred near Shri Nahar, the royal palace of the Gajapati king, during the “Pahari” ritual of Lord Jagannath.
According to sources, a large number of devotees had gathered near the palace to witness the ceremonial procession when the crowd surged, overwhelming the security and administrative arrangements. The resulting chaos led to several people being trampled.
All injured persons were promptly rescued and taken to Puri Medical College and Hospital. As per the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO), medical teams have been deployed and adequate treatment facilities are in place.
