People Suffocate & Faint at Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri, Rushed to Hospital
The sacred city of Puri in Odisha, India, witnessed a chaotic and distressing scene during the renowned Jagannath Rath Yatra, as several devotees reported feeling suffocated and fainted due to the scorching heat and high humidity. The incident occurred on a day when thousands of devotees had gathered to pay their respects to Lord Jagannath and his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra.
According to reports, as many as two devotees collapsed due to the extreme heat and humidity, prompting rescue teams to rush them to the hospital immediately. The incident was confirmed by Odisha State Minister Mukesh Mahaling, who stated that the high humidity was the primary cause of the collapse. Mahaling also assured that the affected devotees were receiving medical attention and were in stable condition.
The video footage of the incident shows ambulances arriving at the scene, with devotees making way for them to pass through. The images convey the gravity of the situation, as rescue workers carried the unconscious devotees to the ambulances and rushed them to the hospital.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most revered and popular Hindu festivals, which takes place every year in Puri. The festival is a grand procession of three chariots, each carrying one of the deities, through the streets of Puri. The festival is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India and is a significant tourist attraction, drawing millions of devotees and enthusiasts from around the world.
However, the incident highlights the need for better preparedness and infrastructure to cater to the massive crowds that gather during the festival. The high humidity and heatwave conditions in Puri during the summer months can be particularly challenging, and it is essential that authorities take necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of devotees.
The Odisha government has been working tirelessly to provide better facilities and amenities to devotees during the festival. The government has set up numerous medical camps, water booths, and sanitation facilities across the city to cater to the needs of the devotees. Additionally, the authorities have also deployed hundreds of security personnel to maintain law and order and ensure the smooth conduct of the festival.
Despite these efforts, the incident raises concerns about the preparedness of the authorities to handle emergencies during the festival. It is crucial that the government and other stakeholders work together to identify the root causes of the incident and take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and spiritual values of India. It is a celebration of faith, devotion, and community, and it is essential that authorities prioritize the safety and well-being of devotees during the festival. The incident serves as a wake-up call for authorities to re-examine their preparedness and take necessary measures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for devotees.
