Haridwar, July 27 – In a horrifying turn of events, six devotees were killed and over 30 injured in a stampede at the revered Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar on Sunday morning. The tragedy struck around 9 a.m., as thousands thronged the hilltop shrine during the holy month of Sawan, turning faith into chaos in seconds.
The narrow staircase, which leads pilgrims up more than 500 feet to the Shivalik shrine, became a death trap after panic spread like wildfire. According to officials, the rumour of an electric current leak near the stairway caused sudden terror among the crowd.
“The moment someone shouted about current, people began pushing and running. It was unstoppable,” said a local eyewitness.
Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Singh Dobal confirmed the casualties and said at least 35 devotees were rushed to hospitals, with six declared dead. Some of the injured are critical, and five have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced care.
Videos from the scene show disturbing visuals — slippers scattered, people weeping, and family members desperately waiting outside hospitals.
“People Used Electric Wires for Support”
In a shocking revelation, District Magistrate Mayur Dixit said several broken electric wires were found at the site, suggesting that pilgrims may have been trying to climb using them, potentially sparking the rumour and subsequent panic.
Chief Minister Orders Probe
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called the incident “heart-wrenching” and confirmed a magisterial inquiry.
“Those responsible for spreading the rumour will face strict action,” he stated.
He added that rescue teams including SDRF and fire brigade acted swiftly and operations are still underway.
PM Modi Reacts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy:
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives… Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon.”
Helpline Numbers Issued
The State Disaster Management Department has set up emergency helplines for distressed families:
Haridwar District Emergency Ops Centre: 01334-223999, 9068197350, 9528250926
Dehradun State Ops Centre: 0135-2710334/35, 8218867005, 9058441404
The Mansa Devi temple, a Panch Tirtha (five sacred shrines) of Haridwar, holds immense religious significance. However, today’s tragedy raises serious questions about crowd control, infrastructure, and emergency readiness at major pilgrimage sites, especially during peak spiritual seasons like Sawan.
As the smoke clears from the chaos, the nation mourns — and demands accountability.
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