GOA: A stampede during the Shree Lairai Zatra festival in Shirgao village, Bicholim, claimed six lives and left over 60 people injured on Saturday. The tragedy occurred as thousands gathered for the annual religious celebration.
The deceased have been identified as Surya Mayekar (Sakhali), Pratibha Kalangutkar (Kumbharjua), Yeshwant Kerkar (Thivim), Sagar Nandarge (Mathwada, Piligao), and Aditya and Tanuja Kauthankar (Auchit Wada, Thivim).
Among the injured, eight are in critical condition, with two patients intubated and transferred to Goa Medical College (GMC) in Bambolim for specialised care. Others are receiving treatment at Asilo Hospital, the North Goa District Hospital in Mapusa, and the Primary Health Centre in Bicholim. Ten sustained minor injuries, and two have already been discharged.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed the immediate deployment of medical teams and resources. “We have ensured that medical officers are stationed across key hospitals. Ambulances were rushed to the site, and standby teams were activated until the situation came under control,” said Health Minister Vishwajit Rane. He added that nodal officers have been appointed at GMC and Asilo to monitor patient care and provide regular updates.
The exact cause of the stampede is still under investigation, and authorities continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with CM Sawant to review the situation and assured full support from the Centre. He also urged the chief minister to visit the injured and personally oversee their treatment.
