A day after a devastating stampede claimed nine lives at the revered Sri Varaha Narasimhaswamy Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, police authorities have taken stringent measures by completely prohibiting public entry into the temple premises.
The tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday during the Mukkoti Ekadasi celebrations, one of the most significant festivals at the temple, drawing thousands of devotees from across Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states.
Chaotic Scenes and Fatal Crush
According to eyewitness accounts, the stampede occurred when a massive crowd of devotees attempted to enter the temple through the main entrance around 5:30 AM. The narrow pathways and overwhelming number of pilgrims created a dangerous bottleneck situation.
"The crowd became uncontrollable," recounted one survivor. "People started pushing from behind, and those in front had no space to move. Before we knew it, people were falling and getting trampled."
Immediate Response and Casualties
Local authorities and temple administration immediately launched rescue operations. The injured were rushed to nearby government hospitals in Kasibugga and Srikakulam.
Official reports confirmed that nine devotees, including three women, lost their lives in the tragic incident. Several others sustained injuries, with many receiving treatment for fractures, bruises, and breathing difficulties.
Police Impose Strict Restrictions
In response to the tragedy, Srikakulam police have implemented comprehensive security measures:
- Complete prohibition of public entry into the temple complex
- Heightened security deployment around temple premises
- Investigation into the circumstances leading to the stampede
- Review of crowd management protocols for future festivals
Political Leadership Responds
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced ex-gratia payments of ₹10 lakh to the families of each deceased victim. The Chief Minister also directed officials to provide the best possible medical care to the injured.
"This is a heartbreaking tragedy. We must ensure such incidents never happen again," stated the Chief Minister during his address to the media.
Temple's Historical Significance
The Sri Varaha Narasimhaswamy Temple holds immense religious importance for devotees, particularly during the Mukkoti Ekadasi festival when special prayers and rituals attract massive gatherings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Varaha (boar) and Narasimha (lion-man) avatars.
As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on improving crowd management systems and implementing better safety measures to prevent similar tragedies during future religious gatherings.
