Tragic Stampede in Nalanda: CM Nitish Kumar Announces Rs 6 Lakh Aid for Victims' Families
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Patna, March 31 (NationPress) Following a tragic stampede in Bihar's Nalanda district that resulted in the deaths of eight individuals and injuries to many more, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar conveyed his profound sorrow and declared financial support for the victims' families.
The state administration will disburse an amount of Rs 6 lakh to each bereaved family—Rs 4 lakh sourced from the Disaster Relief Fund and Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
Water Resource Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary emphasized the government's serious approach to the incident and noted that the Chief Minister is actively overseeing the ongoing situation.
He assured that all injured individuals are receiving adequate medical treatment at the government's expense.
Characterizing the incident as “devastating,” the minister mentioned that prompt relief and rescue operations were initiated, with officials instructed to ensure comprehensive support for the victims and their families.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha also expressed his condolences, referring to the event as extremely distressing. He extended his sympathies to the grieving families and wished for a swift recovery for the injured, reaffirming the government's commitment to assist those affected.
The tragedy unfolded at the historic Sheetla Mata Temple in Maghra village, located in the Deepnagar police jurisdiction, where a significant crowd had assembled for the Sheetlashtami festival during the sacred month of Chaitra.
Amidst the throng, chaos erupted unexpectedly, leading to the stampede.
Reports indicate that at least eight people, including seven women, have lost their lives, while many others suffered injuries and are currently receiving treatment in local hospitals. Some sources suggest that the casualty count may be higher, and officials are in the process of confirming the exact figures.
Eyewitnesses have reported that the overwhelming crowd and limited space within the temple grounds contributed to the sudden turmoil, culminating in the stampede.
Emergency response teams and local authorities hurried to the scene to transport the injured to medical facilities.
Relief and rescue efforts are ongoing, and authorities are expected to investigate the precise cause of the stampede and evaluate whether sufficient crowd control measures were implemented.