A stampede at a famous Hindu temple in northern India on Sunday resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals, as reported by officials. According to calculations by DW, this incident marks at least the seventh significant stampede in India this year, with previous occurrences including a stampede at a cricket stadium in Bengaluru in June, leading to over 70 total deaths.
The latest stampede occurred at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, approximately a 5-hour drive from New Delhi. The crush began after a high-voltage electric wire fell on a temple path, causing panic among the numerous worshippers present. Police believe rumors might have also played a role in triggering the crush. Experts report six fatalities and over 10 injured, with some sources citing 34 injuries. After the incident, local authorities managed to control the situation, and the injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences to those affected.
Haridwar, located where the River Ganges exits the Himalayan foothills, holds considerable importance for Hindu devotees, who visit in large numbers, particularly during weekends and festivals. Unfortunately, deadly stampedes and crowd crushes are common in India, such as during the Maha Kumbh Hindu festival and events in Odisha and Goa.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/india-6-dead-in-haridwar-temple-stampede/a-73427389?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
