Did Electric Current Rumors Cause the Mansa Devi Stampede?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Panic can easily escalate in crowded situations.
- Understanding the power of rumors is essential.
- Emergency response teams play a critical role in such incidents.
- Authorities need to enhance crowd management during religious events.
- Staying informed can help prevent future tragedies.
Dehradun, July 27 (NationPress) The Uttarakhand Police reported on Sunday that their initial investigation into the Mansa Devi stampede revealed that the chaos was sparked by panic stemming from rumors of electric current.
Tragically, six devotees lost their lives in this incident.
According to Haridwar's Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Parmendra Singh Dobal, "The preliminary inquiry indicates that panic spread after rumors about electric current. As people attempted to flee, they jostled and fell over one another."
He noted that at approximately 9 a.m., the Police Control Room was notified about the situation, prompting a swift police response to the temple.
The stampede took place in the vicinity of the temple stairs.
A total of 35 individuals were rescued, but sadly, six have died, Dobal confirmed.
The State Disaster Response Force and a fire team are currently deployed at the location for relief and rescue operations.
Authorities are gathering forensic evidence, and the situation at the temple has now stabilized, he added.
Following the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his sorrow over the Mansa Devi stampede, calling it extremely distressing news.
"We've received extremely distressing news about a stampede at the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar. The Uttarakhand SDRF, local police, and other rescue teams have arrived and are engaged in relief efforts," CM Dhami stated in his post on X.
"I am in continuous contact with the local administration on this matter, and the situation is being closely monitored. I pray to Mata Rani for the safety of all devotees," he added.
During the ongoing holy month of Shravan, thousands of devotees flocked to this sacred site.
Eyewitness accounts described a scene of chaos, with individuals pushing against one another while waiting in queues, leading to panic and a sudden rush.
Further information regarding the Haridwar incident is still pending as authorities evaluate the circumstances.
Every year, Haridwar experiences a significant influx of pilgrims during the month of Shravan, particularly at the esteemed Har Ki Pauri and Mansa Devi Temple.