Srikakulam (AP): At least ten devotees were killed and several others injured in a stampede at the Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, on Saturday morning. The tragedy struck when a massive crowd of devotees gathered to offer prayers on the auspicious occasion of Ekadashi, triggering chaos on the temple steps.
Eyewitnesses said hundreds of women carrying puja baskets were seen struggling to climb the staircase amid the surge. Videos circulating online show people falling over one another as the crowd pressed forward. Several women were later rushed to hospitals in critical condition.
Andhra Pradesh: Stampede at Venkateswara Temple in Kashibugga, Srikakulam district; several devotees dead, injuries reported. pic.twitter.com/owMt8cEI6j
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Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep grief over the incident, calling it “extremely heartbreaking.” In a post on X, he said, “I express my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. I’ve directed officials to ensure speedy and proper treatment for the injured and asked local authorities and public representatives to oversee relief measures.”
Preliminary reports suggest the temple, a privately managed shrine, lacked adequate crowd-control arrangements. Officials said an inquiry has been ordered to determine whether the organisers had sought permissions for such a large gathering.
The incident has sparked widespread sorrow and renewed concern over safety measures at pilgrimage sites across Andhra Pradesh, which has witnessed multiple stampedes at temples in recent years.
