Srikakulam: In a heart-wrenching incident, at least nine devotees — most of them women — lost their lives and several others sustained injuries after a stampede broke out at the revered Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, on Saturday.
Officials said the tragedy occurred when an overwhelming crowd gathered to offer prayers on the auspicious occasion of Ekadashi. The heavy rush led to severe overcrowding within the temple premises, triggering chaos and panic that ultimately resulted in the deadly stampede.
Authorities confirmed that the death toll could rise further, as several of the injured are in critical condition. All those injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu rushed to the site immediately after receiving news of the tragedy. He held discussions with temple authorities and local officials to review the situation and coordinate relief measures.
In an official statement, the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and announced that rescue and relief operations are underway. Additional police personnel have been deployed at the temple to control the situation and assist in crowd management.
