People Suffocate & Faint at Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri, Rushed to Hospital
The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra, a sacred Hindu festival, has once again turned into a scene of panic and chaos in Odisha’s Puri. According to reports, several devotees felt suffocated and fainted during the celebration, prompting the authorities to rush them to the hospital for medical attention.
As per the state Minister Mukesh Mahaling, the incident occurred due to the high humidity levels in the air, which caused a few devotees to collapse. The rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the spot to provide assistance to the affected individuals.
A video clip of the incident has gone viral on social media, showing ambulances arriving at the scene and devotees making way for them to pass through. The clip is a stark reminder of the chaos that ensued during the festival, which is an important part of Hindu culture and tradition.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a 14th-century festival that is held annually in Puri, Odisha, to commemorate the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balaram, and Goddess Subhadra to their aunt’s temple. The three deities are carried on three elaborate chariots, known as raths, through the streets of Puri, and the festival attracts millions of devotees from all over the world.
However, this year’s festival has been marred by reports of devotees feeling unwell and fainting due to the scorching heat and high humidity. The weather conditions have been particularly harsh in Puri, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius and humidity levels reaching as high as 90%.
The authorities have taken steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the devotees during the festival. Ambulances and medical teams have been stationed at various points along the procession route to provide emergency medical assistance to anyone who may require it.
Despite these efforts, the heat and humidity have taken a toll on many devotees, causing them to feel weak and dizzy. Several people have reported feeling suffocated due to the hot and humid air, which has led to a few cases of fainting and unconsciousness.
The authorities have also taken steps to improve the ventilation and air circulation in the areas where the procession is taking place. Fans and misting machines have been installed to help cool down the air and reduce the humidity levels.
In addition, the authorities have advised devotees to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the heat. They have been advised to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothes, and avoid staying in the sun for long periods of time.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a significant cultural and religious event in India, and the authorities are working hard to ensure that it passes off peacefully and safely. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the festival is expected to continue uninterrupted, with millions of devotees expected to participate in the celebrations over the next few days.
In conclusion, while the Jagannath Rath Yatra is a joyous and festive occasion, it is also important to prioritize the safety and well-being of all those who participate in it. The authorities and the devotees must work together to ensure that the festival is celebrated in a safe and responsible manner, despite the challenges posed by the weather.
