Tirupati Stampede: Mismanagement Causes 6 Deaths, 40 Injured

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. A stampede occurred at Tirupati’s Venkateswara Swamy temple during special darshan arrangements.
2. Six people died, and over 40 were injured in the chaos.
3. The incident resulted from mismanagement and overcrowding.
4. The stampede began when a gate was opened for a sick woman.
5. Andhra Pradesh CM ordered relief efforts and a thorough investigation.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Incident Overview

The Tirupati temple witnessed a tragic stampede that left six people dead and over 40 injured. The incident occurred during Vaikuntha Dwara Darshanam, which attracted over 4,000 devotees.

What Triggered the Stampede?

The chaos began when a gate was opened to assist a sick devotee to the hospital. The crowd took advantage of the open gate, causing a rush. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) had opened 91 counters for token distribution but failed to manage the growing crowd.

Administrative Response

TTD officials apologized, admitting lapses in crowd control. Chairman BR Naidu confirmed an investigation and promised corrective measures. Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu expressed distress and instructed immediate relief efforts.

Eyewitness Accounts and Videos

Videos showed police controlling the crowd and performing CPR on the injured. Eyewitnesses criticized poor crowd management and lack of sufficient safety measures.

Security and Arrangements

Despite deploying 3,000 police officers, the measures fell short. TTD had earlier announced restrictions for token holders but failed to prevent the stampede.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• The stampede claimed six lives and injured over 40 people.
• Overcrowding and administrative lapses were primary causes.
• CM Naidu ensured relief measures and ordered an investigation.
• The incident highlights the need for better crowd management.

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