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Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh – A tragic stampede occurred near Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens, resulting in the deaths of six devotees and injuries to over 30 others.
Incident Overview
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) had arranged for the distribution of 1.2 lakh tokens for the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam, scheduled from January 10 to 12, 2025. The tokens were to be issued starting at 5:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, across 94 counters at various locations, including Vishnu Nivasam, Srinivasam, and Bhudevi Complexes. However, eager devotees began gathering at these centers from Wednesday afternoon, leading to overcrowded conditions.
The situation escalated around 8 p.m. when the gates were opened to allow an unwell devotee to exit the queue. This led to a sudden surge as the waiting crowd pressed forward, resulting in a stampede. Emergency services were promptly deployed, and the injured were transported to Ruia Hospital and SVIMS for treatment. Unfortunately, six individuals succumbed to their injuries, and several others remain in critical condition.
Official Response
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock over the incident and has ordered a high-level inquiry into the circumstances leading to the tragedy. He emphasized the need for improved crowd management strategies during significant religious events to prevent such occurrences in the future. The Chief Minister is scheduled to visit Tirupati to meet with the injured and assess the situation personally.
TTD’s Measures
In response to the incident, TTD officials have temporarily halted the token distribution process and are reassessing their crowd control measures. They have announced plans to implement a more streamlined and secure method for token distribution to ensure the safety of devotees during the upcoming Vaikunta Ekadashi festival.
FAQs
What caused the stampede at Tirupati?
The stampede was triggered by overcrowding and a sudden surge of devotees during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens near Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati. The situation escalated when the gates were opened to allow an unwell devotee to exit, leading to a rush among the waiting crowd.
How many casualties resulted from the incident?
Six devotees lost their lives, and over 30 others sustained injuries due to the stampede. Several of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.
What actions are being taken by the authorities?
The Andhra Pradesh government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to implement improved crowd management strategies and is scheduled to visit Tirupati to meet with the injured.
Will the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam proceed as planned?
TTD officials are currently reassessing the situation and have temporarily halted token distribution. They plan to implement a more secure method for token distribution to ensure the safety of devotees during the upcoming festival.