Puri Rath Yatra: One devotee dies, 100 injured in stampede-like incident during grand procession

Puri Rath Yatra: A tragic incident marred the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha's Puri on Thursday after a stampede-like situation reportedly claimed the life of one devotee and left around 100 others injured.

The incident took place on Bada Danda (Grand Road), where a massive crowd had gathered to witness the annual chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. The Rath Yatra is one of the country's biggest religious festivals and attracts lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad every year. According to preliminary information, a devotee experienced severe breathing problems amid the heavy rush of pilgrims. The person was immediately taken to the Puri District Headquarters Hospital, where doctors declared them dead. Several other devotees suffered injuries during the crowd surge and were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Initial reports suggest that around 100 persons were injured, though officials have not yet released the final number of casualties or confirmed the exact extent of the injuries. The reason behind the stampede-like situation has not been officially determined. Authorities have launched an assessment of the incident, while police and local administration are monitoring the situation and managing the crowd. Despite the unfortunate incident, officials continued efforts to ensure the smooth conduct of the remaining Rath Yatra rituals under heightened security and crowd management measures. Further details are awaited. Also Read | Maruti Suzuki ordered to replace car or refund Rs 20.5 lakh in India's first E20 fuel consumer case Also Read | OnePlus may exit US and Europe as Oppo major business overhaul; India next in line?