NEW DELHI: Seven people were killed and several others injured in a stampede-like incident at the Ashokdham Temple in Bihar’s Lakhisarai early Monday, according to Bihar Police, as reported by news agency ANI.
The incident took place as a large crowd of devotees gathered at the temple on Shravan Somvaar, a Monday during the holy month of Shravan that typically draws large numbers of devotees to Shiva temples.
SDPO Shivam Kumar told ANI that seven casualties had been reported. He said an electric pole may have fallen, possibly resulting in electrocution and triggering the stampede-like situation. However, officials said the exact cause would be confirmed only after verification.
Lakhisarai District Magistrate Shailendra Kumar said the crowd had swelled to an unprecedented level. He said two trains arrived in the area between 6.30 am and 6.45 am, further adding to the crowd.
“Arrangements were made as we had anticipated the crowd. We then came to know that barricading broke on one side due to the crowd and people fell on each other,” Kumar said.
He added that authorities immediately rushed 10-15 people for assistance after the incident.
Further details are awaited.
