Bihar Temple Stampede: 7 Devotees Killed, 14 Injured in Lakhisarai
BH24 BREAKING NEWS
Bihar temple stampede: At least seven devotees were killed and 14 others injured after a stampede-like incident at the Ashok Dham Temple in Lakhisarai on Monday morning. The incident occurred during a massive gathering of devotees on the third Monday of the holy Shravan month.
Panic Breaks Out During Massive Temple Gathering
The incident took place near the Ashok Dham halt railway station, close to the temple. Thousands of devotees had gathered to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The crowd became particularly heavy during the early morning hours, making movement difficult in the area.
According to preliminary reports, panic started after an electric pole reportedly fell amid the crowd. Reports of a possible electric shock or live wire quickly spread, triggering fear among devotees. People began rushing away from the area, causing several devotees to fall and others to become trapped in the crowd.
Seven Devotees Lose Their Lives
Police and rescue teams rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials reported that 14 people were injured, although authorities are continuing to verify the exact number.
Several women were among those killed. Early reports identified four victims as Manmala Devi, Rinku Devi, Hemlata Devi and Lalita Devi. Three victims were from Lakhisarai, while Rinku Devi was reportedly from Munger district.
The tragedy has left families and devotees in shock. Authorities are continuing to identify the victims and provide assistance to their families.
CM Orders Immediate Relief and Treatment
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed grief over the deaths and directed officials to ensure proper treatment for all injured devotees. The administration has also been instructed to provide immediate assistance to the affected families.
Officials are investigating the circumstances that led to the stampede-like situation. The exact role of the fallen electric pole and whether an electrical fault triggered the panic are yet to be established.
Crowd Management Under Focus
The incident has once again raised questions about crowd management at major religious gatherings. Shravan Mondays attract huge crowds at Shiva temples across India, increasing the need for proper barricading, controlled entry and exit routes, medical teams and emergency response systems.
Authorities are continuing relief operations at the temple site while the investigation remains underway.
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Image Headline: BIHAR TEMPLE STAMPEDE: 7 DEAD, 14 INJURED
Alt Text: Devotees and emergency personnel at Ashok Dham Temple after a stampede-like incident in Lakhisarai, Bihar
