Andhra temple stampede: How the Srikakulam Venkateswara Temple stampede started

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Human Resources Development Nara Lokesh said: “As soon as the news of the stampede broke out, As soon as the information was received, I spoke with the officials, Minister Achchennaidu from the district, and local MLA Gauthu Shirish. I have instructed that immediate assistance be provided to the affected individuals.”

How the stampede started

Saturdays usually see a huge footfall of devotees at the Venkateswara Temple in Kashibugga. Since November 1 was ekadashi, the rush was even more.

“On Saturdays, 10,000-15,000 devotees visit the temple. Today being ekadashi, there was an extraordinary rush of around 25000. The temple has recently become very famous as “Chinna Tirupati” (little Tirupati). Like every Saturday police was informed to make security arrangements,” a temple official said.

The stampede is believed to have started when there was some jostling for space to move up the women’s queue. The temple authorities said they had put up railings and barricades as barriers to control and ensure smooth movement.

However, the Saturday rush, especially the day being ekadashi, proved to be too much for the barricades, which gave way. Several people fell sparking panic in the area. This triggered the stampede.

Attempts by police and authorities to rescue and divert the devotees failed as people lost their way amid the rush by families of those who fell trying to pull them up. While some tried to find their way out, others pushed them away. This raised the panic