A religious celebration turned tragic in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district when a bamboo platform, erected for devotees, collapsed under the weight of hundreds of people. Six individuals lost their lives, and over 50 were injured in the unfortunate incident.
Hundreds Gather for Annual ‘Laddoo Mahotsav’
The event, a cherished tradition for the Jain community in Baraut, was the annual ‘Laddoo Mahotsav.’ Devotees flocked to a local temple to offer laddoos as part of the religious observance. For 30 years, the festival has been celebrated without incident, making this year’s tragedy even more shocking.
The platform, constructed from bamboo and meant to accommodate the crowd, gave way as the number of attendees exceeded its capacity. The collapse caused chaos, with people scrambling to escape and help the injured.
Rescue Operations and Medical Assistance
Baghpat Police Chief Arpit Vijayvargiya confirmed that rescue operations began promptly. Police and ambulances were on the scene shortly after the collapse. Injured individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals, where those with minor injuries received first aid and were sent home. Others with more severe injuries are undergoing treatment.
The District Magistrate, Asmita Lal, clarified, “A wooden structure collapsed, leading to injuries. About 20 people were treated and sent home, while others remain hospitalized.” Authorities are working with the Jain community to determine how such an incident occurred at an event with a long-standing history of smooth execution.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Expresses Condolences
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep anguish over the tragic incident. He directed officials to expedite relief efforts and ensure proper medical treatment for the injured. His office is reportedly monitoring the situation closely, and financial assistance for the victims’ families may be announced soon.
Investigations Begin as Questions Mount
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the platform’s failure. Initial findings suggest that the bamboo structure, likely not designed to bear the weight of such a large crowd, was a critical factor.
The event organizers had been hosting the festival for decades without issues, leading to questions about whether adequate safety checks were conducted this year. Some locals have pointed out that the platform appeared flimsy even before the incident, raising concerns about negligence.
- Possible causes being examined include:
- Overcrowding and lack of crowd control measures.
- Structural flaws in the bamboo platform.
- Insufficient oversight during construction and setup.
A Somber Reminder of Safety Oversights
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of safety precautions during public events. While the religious significance of such festivals cannot be understated, ensuring the safety of attendees must always take precedence.
The Jain community in Baraut, now grieving the loss of their fellow devotees, has vowed to review the planning and organization of future events to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
