Lakhisarai: At least seven people were killed and several others injured after a stampede-like situation developed at Ashokdham Temple in Bihar’s Lakhisarai amid a heavy gathering of devotees, officials said.
The incident occurred during the early morning hours when a large number of people had assembled at the temple. Authorities were alerted after the crowd became difficult to control and a section of the barricading gave way.
Crowd surged after arrival of two trains
Lakhisarai District Magistrate Shailendra Kumar said the gathering grew much larger than anticipated. According to the official, two trains arrived in the area around 6:30–6:45 am, further adding to the number of devotees at the temple.
The administration had made arrangements in anticipation of a large crowd. However, the situation changed rapidly after the gathering swelled.
The DM said a portion of the barricading broke under pressure from the crowd, following which several people fell over one another.
Rescue teams rushed to the spot
Officials immediately moved personnel to the affected area after receiving information about the incident. The district administration said around 10 to 15 people were taken to safety in the initial response.
The injured were subsequently attended to, while authorities began assessing the situation and coordinating further rescue and medical assistance.
Probe into incident underway
The deaths have prompted authorities to examine how the crowd management arrangements failed despite preparations being made for a large gathering.
Officials are expected to assess the condition of the barricades, the movement of devotees and the impact of the sudden arrival of additional crowds following the trains.
The incident has cast a shadow over the religious gathering at Ashokdham Temple, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation and provide assistance to those affected.
