Bihar, India – At least seven people were killed and more than 12 others injured in a stampede at the Ashokdam temple in Laksarai, Bihar, on Monday morning. The mass religious pilgrimage turned into chaos and panic after a massive influx of pilgrims overwhelmed the temple’s capacity.
The reasons and the massive influx of huge crowds
According to data published by the Indian newspaper Navbharat Times, approximately 50,000 devotees flocked to the temple to participate in religious events. This sharp and unprecedented increase in the number of pilgrims may be linked to the arrival of two trains carrying visitors at the local station almost simultaneously. This resulted in a massive surge of people surging towards the temple gates.
In a related development, the head of the Laksarai district administration, local official Shailendra Kumar, explained that the immense pressure and unplanned influx of people led to the collapse of a security fence in a vital section of the temple. As a result, pilgrims lost their balance and began to fall on top of each other in the confined space, exacerbating the number of casualties and injuries.
Rumors of electrocution and ongoing official investigations
On the ground, unconfirmed reports circulated about a power pole collapsing or a wire snapping during the stampede, which, according to some accounts, resulted in several people being electrocuted. However, local authorities and security officials confirmed that these rumors have not yet been officially verified. Investigations are still underway to determine all the circumstances of the incident and pinpoint the exact causes of this tragedy.
Rescue and relief teams, in cooperation with security forces in Bihar state, are continuing to provide necessary medical care to the injured in nearby hospitals. Authorities have imposed a security cordon around the temple to complete investigations and prevent any gatherings that could hinder the work of emergency teams.
