How is Goa's CM Pramod Sawant Supporting Families Affected by the Stampede?

Panaji, May 3 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, expressed on Saturday that state officials are committed to providing all necessary medical care to those injured in the devastating stampede that occurred during the Lairai Devi temple celebrations in Shirgao village.

This unfortunate event happened in the early hours of Saturday, as a significant number of devotees gathered for the annual yatra.

CM Pramod Sawant took the initiative to visit the hospital to evaluate the condition of the injured. Later, he posted on X, stating, "Deeply saddened by the tragic stampede at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgaon this morning. I visited the hospital to meet the injured and have assured all possible support to the affected families. I am personally monitoring the situation to ensure that every necessary measure is being taken."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached out to CM Sawant, reviewing the situation closely and offering full support from the Centre during this challenging time.

Goa's Health Minister, Vishwajit Rane, confirmed that all district hospitals were on high alert and fully prepared to manage the emergency.

In a post on X, Rane remarked, "In light of the unfortunate stampede incident at the Goa temple, we are actively ensuring that all those affected receive the necessary medical care. A 24/7 helpline is now available; please dial 104 for any medical emergencies."

He added that the medical facilities at Goa Medical College (GMC) and other district hospitals have been bolstered and placed on high alert.

"Ten advanced 108 ambulances have been deployed to assist with transfers and on-site management. We remain dedicated to offering comprehensive care and support during this difficult period," he affirmed.

Rane further informed that prompt and extensive measures have been implemented to handle the crisis.

"We have coordinated with 108, ensuring that five ambulances were dispatched to the site, with three stationed at Asilo and an additional three kept on standby until the situation stabilizes," he elaborated.

According to his statements, 30 casualties have been reported thus far, including eight critical patients—two of whom required intubation—who have been referred to GMC for specialized treatment.

"Four individuals, comprising two males and two females, were unfortunately declared dead upon arrival. Eight are currently admitted at Asilo, ten are receiving treatment for minor injuries, and two have already been discharged," he mentioned.

However, sources suggest that the actual death toll may be higher, with at least six confirmed fatalities and over 30 individuals injured.

"Ten patients are currently in serious condition and under observation in the casualty department at GMC. Additional doctors have been enlisted, and a dedicated ICU with ventilators has been established to provide consolidated care. All necessary arrangements have been made, and we are closely monitoring the condition of each patient," he stated.

GMC and health services, including 108, have also been ordered to remain on high alert. Medical Superintendents from GMC and Asilo have been designated as nodal officers to closely oversee the situation. "We will keep you regularly updated," Rane added.

The stampede occurred during the Shri Lairai Yatra, an annual religious event that attracts over 50,000 devotees to the temple in North Goa.

A significant aspect of this centuries-old ritual is the participation of barefoot 'dhonds' who walk across a bed of burning embers in a symbolic expression of devotion. The overwhelming number of attendees and a sudden crowd surge reportedly contributed to the tragic stampede.

Initial reports indicate that severe overcrowding and inadequate crowd management arrangements might be responsible for the incident.

The situation escalated due to a downward slope on a section of the route, where the crowd rapidly surged forward, leading to a crush.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as rescue and medical efforts are in progress. The state government has extended full support and assistance to the victims and their families.