Bhopal: Scores of pilgrims were feared dead in a stampede at Ratangarh temple in Datia district of Madhya Pradesh on Sunday morning. Unconfirmed reports put the death toll at 92 and the injured at more than 100.
Police officials have rushed to the spot to launch rescue and relief operation
According to reports, the tragedy occurred 55km from the district headquarters – when the pilgrims were crossing the Sindh river bridge to attend a religious ritual on the ninth day of the Navaratra festival at the Mandula Devi temple.
According to an official at least 50 were killed in stampede, while others drowned after jumping of the bridge in panic. He said,”a total of 90 bodies have been recovered so far, and the count is on. A few had died while being taken to the hospital and hence the figure might cross hundred,” he said.
Over 50, 000 devotees were there when the tragedy took place, said an eye witness.
Here it may be mentioned that this was the same place where more than 35 pilgrims were washed away in 2006 when water was released from the Manikheda dam in adjoining Shivpuri district.
“We have not received any confirmed report on casualties yet,” said a senior police official.
Police officials have rushed to the spot to launch rescue and relief operation. Those injured in the stampede had been admitted to hospital, said a senior officer in the district administration.
Meanwhile, chief minister Shivraj Chauhan has ordered an inquiry into the incident.
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