Puri Rath Yatra 2025: Stampede near Shree Gundicha Temple leaves 3 dead and 50 injured. Odisha CM orders inquiry. LIVE updates, eyewitness accounts, and safety measures.
Puri Rath Yatra Big Update: 3 Dead, 50 Injured in Stampede Near Shree Gundicha Temple
Puri, Odisha | June 22, 2025:
In a tragic turn of events during the world-famous Puri Rath Yatra, a stampede near the Shree Gundicha Temple resulted in the death of 3 devotees and injuries to over 50 others. The incident occurred as thousands of devotees gathered to witness Lord Jagannath’s chariot procession.
According to local authorities, the stampede was triggered by sudden overcrowding and lack of crowd control near a narrow exit route close to the temple.
🔴 What Happened at Puri Rath Yatra?
- The incident occurred around 10:45 AM, when a surge of devotees tried to get closer to the chariot near Gundicha Temple.
- Panic ensued as several people fell to the ground and others were trampled.
- Emergency response teams rushed to the site and began rescue operations.
🚑 Casualties and Injuries
- 3 people confirmed dead, identities yet to be disclosed.
- Over 50 injured, including elderly and women.
- Several critically injured patients are being treated at Puri District Hospital and SCB Medical College, Cuttack.
🗣️ Official Statement:
“We deeply regret the loss of lives. An official inquiry has been ordered. Compensation will be provided to the families of the deceased,” said Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
🚨 Security Lapses & Crowd Control Questions
The tragedy has raised serious concerns about:
- Insufficient barricading
- Overcrowding beyond capacity
- Lack of real-time monitoring and emergency planning
Local police officials acknowledged that over 12 lakh devotees had gathered in Puri for the Rath Yatra this year, possibly exceeding the city’s logistical handling capabilities.
🧎♂️ Devotees in Shock
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “chaotic and terrifying.”
“There was shouting, people were falling… it was impossible to breathe,” said Ramesh Jena, a pilgrim from Bhubaneswar.
📢 Government Response
- Special emergency helpline set up for families to inquire about loved ones.
- Helpline: 1800-345-0061
- Compensation announced: ₹5 lakh for deceased families, ₹50,000 for the injured.
- CM to visit the site and meet victims’ families tomorrow.
