What Happened During the Stampede at Goa's Temple?
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Synopsis
A devastating stampede at the Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao, Goa, has resulted in seven fatalities and over 30 injuries. This incident highlights the urgent need for better crowd control measures during large religious events. As thousands gathered for the annual festival, chaos erupted, prompting swift action from local volunteers and emergency services.
Key Takeaways
- Seven fatalities and over 30 injuries reported.
- Overcrowding and lack of safety measures identified as causes.
- Emergency services and locals responded to the crisis.
- Annual Shri Lairai Yatra attracts large crowds.
- Importance of crowd management highlighted for future events.
Panaji, May 3 (NationPress) A tragic incident occurred at the Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao village, Goa, where at least seven individuals lost their lives and over 30 others sustained injuries due to a stampede.
The unfortunate event unfolded in the early hours of Saturday.
Initial investigations indicate that overcrowding and inadequate safety measures might be the contributing factors to this disaster.
On the same day, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the hospital to assess the condition of the injured.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that chaos ensued when a section of the crowd became uncontrollable. Local residents and temple volunteers acted swiftly to rescue those in distress.
The stampede erupted as thousands of devotees had gathered at the temple to engage in a traditional ritual, where barefoot participants, known as 'dhonds', traverse a path of burning embers.
Each year, the Shri Lairai Yatra attracts over 50,000 devotees in North Goa.
The chaos began as the crowd, influenced by a downward slope, surged forward simultaneously.
Reports indicate that the injured were promptly transported to nearby medical facilities.
North Goa Superintendent of Police Akshat Kaushal confirmed, "Six individuals have died, and more than 15 others were injured in the stampede at the Lairai Devi temple in Shrigao."
This tragic event coincided with the Shree Devi Lairai Jatra, which started on Friday, drawing large crowds of devotees.
In response to the situation, approximately 1,000 police officers were deployed to oversee the jatra, with drones used for aerial monitoring of crowd dynamics.
Earlier on Friday, Chief Minister Sawant, along with his wife Sulakshana, Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanawade, and local MLAs Premendra Shet and Carlos Ferreira, visited the jatra.
This temple is renowned for its unique combination of northern and southern architectural styles and hosts the Shirgao Jatra every May. The festival features a traditional fire-walking ritual, attracting thousands of attendees.
Villagers from surrounding areas, including Maulingem, partake in religious offerings dedicated to Goddess Lairai throughout the day, as noted on the Goa Tourism website.
As midnight approaches during the Lairai Jatra, devotees engage in an energetic circular dance inside the temple, harmonizing stick clashes with drumbeats.
Point of View
It is essential to approach incidents such as the tragic stampede at the Lairai Devi temple with sensitivity and a focus on facts. This incident underscores the vital importance of effective crowd management and safety protocols at large gatherings, especially during significant cultural and religious events.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede at the Lairai Devi temple?
The stampede was likely caused by overcrowding and inadequate safety measures, leading to a loss of control among the crowd.
How many people were injured in the stampede?
Over 30 individuals were reported injured in the stampede, with seven confirmed fatalities.
What is the significance of the Shri Lairai Yatra?
The Shri Lairai Yatra is an annual festival in North Goa that attracts thousands of devotees, featuring traditional rituals, including fire-walking.
What actions were taken by authorities after the stampede?
Authorities deployed approximately 1,000 police personnel for crowd control and used drones for aerial surveillance during the event.
Who visited the injured after the incident?
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the hospitals to check on the injured individuals following the stampede.
