Nearly 625 fell ill amid heat, overcrowding during Puri Ratha Yatra

Nearly 625 devotees required medical attention after the Ratha Yatra in Puri on Friday, as sweltering heat, humidity, and overcrowding triggered a series of isolated health emergencies and minor injuries.

Officials confirmed that 625 people were treated at various medical facilities, with many reporting symptoms such as vomiting, fainting, and minor injuries. According to Dr Kishore Satapathy, Puri Chief District Medical Officer, most of the affected individuals received preliminary treatment at OPDs and were later discharged, as reported by the news agency PTI. No casualties have been reported.

Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling attributed the surge in medical cases to the extreme heat and humid weather. "The primary reason behind the illnesses was the oppressive climate during the procession," he said to PTI

Approximately 70 individuals were admitted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Puri, and nine of them were reported to be in critical condition.

A significant portion of the chaos occurred near the Balagandi area, where Lord Balabhadra’s chariot, Taladhwaja, remained stuck for over an hour. The prolonged halt caused severe crowding in the area, trapping several devotees who sustained injuries while trying to escape the congestion.

Volunteers from both government and private organisations promptly assisted in evacuating the injured and transporting them to hospitals.

Authorities cited difficulties in manoeuvring the chariot at a crucial turn, which slowed the procession and led to increased congestion. A surge in devotees entering restricted zones further disrupted the chariot movement.

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With PTI inputs.