A tragic crowd surge during the Rath Yatra 2025 in Puri, Odisha led to injuries to over 500 devotees, authorities confirmed. Emergency services have been deployed, and the administration has launched a crowd control review.
Source Image:financialexpress
The sacred atmosphere of Rath Yatra 2025 in Puri, Odisha turned tense on Tuesday when a sudden crowd surge injured more than 500 devotees participating in the annual chariot-pulling ceremony. The incident occurred on the Bada Danda (Grand Road) as thousands gathered to witness the divine procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
Authorities say the injuries primarily occurred due to overcrowding, suffocation, and stampede-like conditions as the sea of devotees surged forward during the start of the chariot movement. While no deaths have been reported, several individuals, including senior citizens and women, were critically injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.
Emergency Response Activated:
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Multiple ambulances and medical teams were stationed along the route
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The Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) was immediately deployed
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Over 100 people were admitted to Puri District Hospital, with many others treated on-site
Dr. Rajesh Pradhan, a medical officer at the site, said:
“We’ve been treating injuries ranging from dehydration and fractures to minor head injuries. Fortunately, there are no casualties.”
What Caused the Surge?
Initial reports suggest that a lack of barricade discipline, sudden movement of the crowd near Lord Jagannath’s chariot, and unexpected entry of a separate group of devotees may have caused the surge.
Witnesses claim that people fell over each other as devotees rushed in excitement to touch the sacred rope of the Rath (chariot). Local police and volunteers struggled to manage the overwhelming crowd density at key turns on the Grand Road.
Security and Crowd Control Review Initiated:
The Odisha Government and Puri District Administration have ordered an immediate probe into the incident. Chief Minister and temple authorities have called for enhanced crowd flow mechanisms, better emergency exits, and real-time crowd analytics using drone and CCTV surveillance.
“While the Rath Yatra is a proud cultural tradition, we must prioritize safety and crowd discipline. Improvements will be made,” said a senior official.
Key Highlights (Bullet Points):
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Over 500 injured during a crowd surge at Rath Yatra 2025 in Puri
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Incident occurred near Lord Jagannath’s chariot
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Ambulance and ODRAF teams responded swiftly
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District hospital treating dozens; no reported deaths
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Authorities launch crowd control review
