At least six dead, over 15 injured in stampede at Lairai Devi temple in Goa

At least six people were killed and 50 others injured in a stampede during the annual yatra (religious procession) at the Lairai Devi temple in Shrigao, Goa, North Goa SP Akshat Kaushal said. According to police, the stampede occurred when the crowd began moving rapidly in a sloped area, causing a sudden rush and resulting in chaos.

The incident occurred when panic suddenly spread through the densely packed crowd, causing devotees to run in all directions in an attempt to escape. Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene, with people falling over one another and struggling to make their way out of the chaos.

Emergency services and police rushed to the site soon after receiving information about the incident and immediately began rescue and relief operations. The injured were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

While officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the stampede, initial reports suggest that overcrowding and inadequate crowd control measures may have led to the tragedy. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident. Every year, the Shri Lairai yatra takes place in North Goa, drawing over 50,000 participants. 

Immediate measures being taken: Goa Minister 

Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane stated that in response to the unfortunate stampede during the, immediate and comprehensive measures had been taken to manage the situation. He mentioned that coordination was established with the 108 emergency services, resulting in the deployment of five ambulances to the site. Three ambulances were stationed at Asilo Hospital, with another three kept on standby until the situation stabilised.

“A total of 30 casualties have been reported. Of these, 8 critical patients, including 2 intubated cases, have been referred to GMC for super speciality care; 4 (2 male, 2 female) were brought in dead; 8 are admitted at Asilo; 10 are receiving treatment for minor injuries; and two have been discharged,” he said.

“10 patients are currently serious and under observation in casualty at GMC. Additional doctors have been roped in, and a dedicated ICU with ventilators has been set up to provide consolidated care. All necessary arrangements have been made, and we are closely monitoring the condition of each patient. GMC and Health services, including 108 has also been instructed to remain on high alert. MS from GMC and Asilo, have been appointed as nodal officers to monitor the situation closely. We will keep you regularly updated,” he further added.