Delhi/Shirgao, 3 May (H.S.): At least six people died and over 50 were injured in a stampede during the Lairai Devi jatra at Sree Devi Lairai temple in Shirgaon, Goa, early Saturday. The stampede occurred about 40 km from Panaji as panic spread among the large crowd of devotees. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as individuals tried to escape, while the injured were quickly taken to nearby hospitals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed condolences and promised support for affected families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa.The PMO India handle in post on X said:“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected: PM @narendramodi”
CM Sawant visited hospitals to assist the injured and is actively overseeing the situation. The cause of the stampede is still under investigation, though overcrowding and inadequate crowd control are suspected factors.
I am personally monitoring the situation to ensure that every necessary measure is being taken, he wrote on X.
Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji spoke with me and took detailed stock of the situation, offering his full support during this difficult time, he added.
The Lairai Devi jatra features rituals like the fire-walking ceremony involving devotees seeking blessings. This annual event draws thousands from Goa and neighboring states.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane termed it an unfortunate incident, highlighting the immediate response, including five ambulances dispatched for assistance. He wrote on 'X' ,In view of the unfortunate stampede at the Lairai Zatra, we have taken immediate and comprehensive steps to manage the situation. We have coordinated with 108, ensuring that five ambulances were dispatched to the site, with three stationed at Asilo and an additional three kept on standby until the situation stabilises.
A total of 30 casualties have been reported. Of these, 8 critical patients, including 2 intubated cases, have been referred to GMC for super speciality care; 4 (2 male, 2 female) were brought in dead; 8 are admitted at Asilo; 10 are receiving treatment for minor injuries; and two have been discharged.
10 patients are currently serious and under observation in casualty at GMC. Additional doctors have been roped in, and a dedicated ICU with ventilators has been set up to provide consolidated care. All necessary arrangements have been made, and we are closely monitoring the condition of each patient. GMC and Health services, including 108 has also been instructed to remain on high alert. MS from GMC and Asilo, have been appointed as nodal officers to monitor the situation closely. We will keep you regularly updated.
The Congress criticized the event, saying: Goa Congress is profoundly distressed by the stampede at Jatrotsav of Shree Lairai Devi, Shirgao. We express our deep sorrow over this unfortunate event and extend sincere sympathies to the families who have lost their dear ones. Sending best wishes for a quick recovery to everyone who was hurt.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar
