Haridwar, July 27, 2025:Haridwar Mansa Devi Stampede
A tragic stampede at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi temple has claimed the lives of seven devotees, while 55 others have been injured, some critically. The incident occurred on the stairway leading to the temple during the holy Sawan month, a time when thousands of devotees flock to Haridwar, especially Kanwariyas, to offer prayers.
Panic Over Electrocution Triggered Chaos
According to early reports from the police and eyewitnesses, a rumour about a potential electric shock on the temple route triggered sudden panic among the devotees. People began pushing and rushing to escape the perceived danger, leading to a deadly stampede on the steep staircase that connects the temple to the main road.
Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Singh Dobal confirmed the chaos was likely caused by the fear of electrocution. “Around 35 injured were immediately taken to nearby hospitals, and unfortunately, six people were declared dead on arrival. One more succumbed to injuries later, bringing the total death count to seven,” he said.
Devotees Narrate Horror
Survivors described the terrifying moments when the crowd suddenly surged. A devotee from Bihar told ANI that he was stuck in the middle of the crowd and fell during the stampede, resulting in a fractured hand. “There was a sudden push from behind, and before we realized what was happening, people began falling,” he said.
Visuals Show Chaos, Rescue Ops
Footage from the site showed injured devotees being rushed to hospitals in ambulances, while others were being treated on-site. The narrow, crowded path to the hilltop temple became a danger zone as emergency teams struggled to manage the situation.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Uttarakhand Police, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), launched immediate relief operations. Personnel cleared the path and helped trapped devotees reach safety. The area remains under strict monitoring as officials work to restore order and prevent further crowding.
Breaking: Indian Govt Bans 25 OTT Apps Including Ullu & ALTT for Obscene Content
CM Pushkar Dhami Monitoring Situation
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed grief over the incident. He said he is in constant touch with district officials and is closely following the rescue efforts.
“It is extremely distressing to receive news of a stampede at Mansa Devi Temple. Rescue teams are on the site, and operations are ongoing. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and extend my condolences to the families of the deceased,” said CM Dhami.
Why Mansa Devi Temple Sees Heavy Crowds During Sawan
The Mansa Devi temple, located atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, is one of the most visited temples in Uttarakhand. The Sawan month, dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracts lakhs of Kanwar pilgrims who collect Ganga water and visit temples like Mansa Devi to offer it as part of their religious rituals.
Unfortunately, such large gatherings on narrow paths often lack adequate crowd control measures, raising the risk of accidents during peak times.
Haridwar Mansa Devi Stampede:- What Happens Next?
Authorities have launched a probe to determine if there was any lapse in crowd management and whether the rumour was a result of miscommunication or something more serious. Officials are also urging devotees to avoid panic and follow safety instructions strictly during such pilgrimages.
This tragic incident once again highlights the urgent need for improved safety protocols and better planning during large religious events in pilgrimage cities like Haridwar.