What Happened in the Mansa Devi Stampede? 13 Critical Injuries Reported

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Thirteen critically injured individuals have been transferred to AIIMS Rishikesh.
- Six devotees tragically lost their lives in the stampede.
- Rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities on-site.
- Helpline numbers have been provided for victim families.
- Chief Minister announced compensation for the deceased and injured.
Haridwar, July 27 (NationPress) Thirteen individuals suffering from severe injuries as a result of the Mansa Devi stampede have been transferred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced medical care, while the rescue and relief efforts persist in Uttarakhand's Haridwar.
Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Singh Dobal has confirmed that tragically, six devotees lost their lives in this incident.
The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) released a statement indicating that teams from the District Administration, Police, SDRF, and NDRF arrived promptly at the scene following the outbreak of the stampede and initiated immediate rescue operations.
As per officials, an additional 23 individuals sustained minor injuries. Currently, 20 of them are receiving treatment at Harmilap Mission Government Hospital in Haridwar, while three others are being treated at Mela Hospital.
"The situation has been brought under control. The crowd has been dispersed from the area, and search and rescue operations are still in progress," stated USDMA.
Authorities have also provided helpline numbers for the families of the victims and for those seeking information regarding the incident. District Emergency Operation Centre, Haridwar: 01334-223999, 9068197350, 9528250926. State Emergency Operation Centre, Dehradun: 0135-2710334, 2710335, 8218867005, 9058441404.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conveyed his sorrow over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
CM Dhami has also ordered a magisterial investigation into the incident that claimed six lives and injured several other devotees who were present for 'darshan' at the Mansa Devi temple.
He emphasized that the origin of the rumor concerning an electric shock that led to the stampede would also be investigated, ensuring that those responsible would face justice.
Additional information regarding the Haridwar incident is awaited as authorities continue to evaluate the situation.
Every year, Haridwar experiences a significant surge of pilgrims during the month of Shravan, particularly at the esteemed Har Ki Pauri and Mansa Devi Temple.
This year, however, conditions worsened due to an overwhelming number of attendees, culminating in a stampede that has once again highlighted the critical issue of crowd management at religious events.