Dozens injured as stage collapses during Navratri function in northern India
by Aditi VermaA tragic accident during a Navratri Jagran in northern India’s Punjab resulted in the death of two people and left over a dozen injured, including children after a pandal collapsed due to strong winds and a storm.
The incident took place near the Sikh Govind Godham Temple in Ludhiana on October 6.
Visuals showed the stage was alive with energy as singers performed devotional bhajans dedicated to Mata Rani, filling the air with joy and devotion. The audience, seated in front, was engrossed, enjoying the music and the festive atmosphere. Suddenly, the mood shifted dramatically when the stage’s four corner supports gave way. The metal structures collapsed without warning, crashing down onto the crowd. In an instant, the joyful event turned into chaos as people scrambled in panic, causing a stampede. The peaceful atmosphere shattered as screams replaced the songs, and the audience rushed to escape the falling debris.
According to reports, at approximately 10:30 PM, strong winds and a sudden storm struck the area, causing a large grill structure to collapse onto the crowd. Panic ensued as people scrambled for safety. Among the injured were several children, and two individuals are reported to be in critical condition. All those injured were immediately transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Police arrived on the scene promptly to assist with the evacuation and ensure that emergency services could reach the affected individuals swiftly. A statement from the Temple Committee expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
Navratri, a nine-day festival, is traditionally marked by devotees holding night vigils, or Jagrans, in decorated pandals while singing bhajans (devotional songs) in honor of the Goddess. The festive atmosphere was shattered by the unexpected disaster, and the community is now left grieving.
An investigation is underway to determine whether safety protocols were adequately followed during the setup of the pandal. The district administration has ordered a review of all pandal structures to prevent further accidents during the remainder of the festival.
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