A tragic stampede occurred at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, on Sunday morning around 9 AM. The incident happened on the stairway path that leads to the temple.
According to officials, six people lost their lives and 10 to 15 others were injured in the chaos. Some of the injured are in serious condition and have been taken to bigger hospitals for treatment.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) quickly sent teams to the site to carry out rescue operations. Haridwar District Magistrate Mayur Dixit said that a rumour about an electric current on the pathway led to panic, which caused the stampede. However, initial checks confirmed that there was no live wire or electric current present at the spot.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He said that the SDRF, local police, and rescue teams are working at the site and that he is personally monitoring the situation. He also prayed for the safety and well-being of all the devotees.
Eyewitnesses shared that someone shouted about a live wire, which caused fear and confusion among the pilgrims. Many started crying for help, and due to the narrow path which is only accessible by foot, things quickly got out of control. Local residents and shopkeepers were shocked and tried to help until ambulances and police arrived.
Ujjwal Pundit, a priest associated with the Ganga Sabha, mentioned that a nearby boundary wall may have made the situation worse and added to the stampede.
A pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh reported that he saw around 20 people injured. After the incident, the temple gates were closed, and all devotees were asked to leave.
The Mansa Devi Temple, located atop Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills, is a sacred site visited by thousands of pilgrims. It can be reached by a 1.5 km uphill walk or by using a ropeway.
Authorities have launched a magisterial inquiry to find the exact cause of the stampede and are verifying all witness statements.
