At least six people were killed and several others were reported injured in a stampede while entering a temple in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday evening.
What do we know about Stampede?
The stampede occurred during the 10-day annual festival at the Lord Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirupati city of Andhra Pradesh state.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which oversees the affairs of the temple, had arranged for ticket counters to issue tokens to devotees on the occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadashi festival.
Thousands of devotees from all over India gathered at the temple for darshan. According to the temple president, the stampede broke out when the gate was opened to let out a woman who was feeling uncomfortable.
According to an Indian newspaper report, at least three women were among the dead. Indian ExpressIt was reported that at least 30 people suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital.
Condolences were expressed, investigation was initiated
According to NDTV report, the state government has ordered an investigation into the incident.
State Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, saying “I am deeply saddened” by the deaths.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences.
“Saddened by the stampede in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones,” his office quoted him as saying.
Stampedes are common on religious festivals in India, where large numbers of people gather in small areas.
AP material contributed to this report
Edited by Rana Taha
