Goa stampede: 6 killed, over 15 injured in stampede at Shirgao's Lairai Devi temple

The temple hosts the Shirgao Jatra every May. (Image: Instagram)

At least six people were killed and several others injured after a stampede broke out during a temple festival at the Lairai Devi temple in North Goa's Shirgao on Saturday.

The incident occurred in the wee hours of Saturday during the Shirgao Jatra, which started on Friday and brought in thousands of devotees. Around 1,000 police officers were on duty, and drones were used to manage the crowd.

Thousands of devotees from Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka had gathered at the temple for the festival, a police official said, adding that the exact cause of the stampede would be ascertained after a probe, PTI reported.

State Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said at least 30 people sustained injuries, of which eight are in critical condition and two were referred to the Goa Medical College and Hospital in Bambolim.

Eight injured persons were admitted at the district hospital, while 10 were treated for minor injuries, he added.

"We coordinated with the 108 ambulance service, ensuring that five ambulances were dispatched to the site immediately after the incident, while three more are stationed at the North Goa district hospital," Rane said, PTI reported.

Rane said additional doctors were roped in, and a dedicated ICU with ventilators was set up to provide consolidated care.

"All necessary arrangements have been made, and we are closely monitoring each patient," he said.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also visited the injured at the North Goa district hospital. He announced that an inquiry will be conducted into the temple stampede and the report will be made public.

He took to X and posted, "Deeply saddened by the tragic stampede at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgaon this morning. I visited the hospital to meet the injured and have assured all possible support to the affected families. I am personally monitoring the situation to ensure that every necessary measure is being taken. Prime Minister Modi spoke with me and took detailed stock of the situation, offering his full support during this difficult time"

The temple, known for its blend of northern and southern architectural styles, hosts the Shirgao Jatra every May. The festival also features a traditional fire-walking ritual.

(With inputs from PTI)