PM Modi Expresses Condolences for Lives Lost in Tirupati Stampede
Click to start listening
New Delhi, Jan 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of lives in the stampedes that occurred at three different locations during the sale of Tirumala temple darshan tickets in Tirupati.
In a statement shared on X by the Prime Minister's Office, he remarked: “I am deeply saddened by the stampede incident in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones. I hope for a swift recovery for the injured. The Andhra Pradesh Government is offering all necessary support to the affected individuals.”
The unfortunate event resulted in the death of six devotees, including five women, with 29 others sustaining injuries during the stampedes while trying to secure tickets on Wednesday night.
The incidents took place at three locations designated for issuing Vaikunta Dwara Darshan tickets, which were set to start from Thursday morning.
A significant number of devotees had begun to queue for special darshan tickets, which ultimately led to the chaotic stampede. Among the deceased, five were women.
As many as 29 injured devotees were transported to Ruia and SVIMS hospitals for treatment.
There is concern that the death toll may increase. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), which oversees the operations of the renowned Tirumala temple, had announced that 94 counters across nine locations in Tirupati would begin issuing special darshan tickets from 5 a.m. on Thursday.
However, devotees began gathering from Wednesday evening, creating a large crowd.
When attendees were allowed access to the counters, chaos ensued as they jostled for position, leading to the stampede.
Officials reported that the stampede occurred at Srinivasam, Bairagipatteda, and Satyanarayanapuram.
Law enforcement and TTD officials quickly arrived on the scene to implement rescue and relief operations. The TTD had plans to distribute 1.20 lakh tokens for Vaikunta Dwara Darshan on January 10, 11, and 12.
Tirupati District Collector Venkateshwar and TTD Executive Officer Shyamala Rao promptly visited Ruia Hospital. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed their shock concerning the loss of four lives in the stampede.
The Chief Minister conveyed his sorrow over the incident in a statement. He communicated with officials via phone to ensure optimal medical care for the injured.
He instructed senior officials to assess the scene and coordinate relief efforts.
He remained in contact with district officials and TTD representatives to oversee the situation.
Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party leader Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also shared his condolences regarding the tragic loss of four devotees in this unfortunate event.
