People Suffocate & Faint at Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha’s Puri, Rushed to Hospital
The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra, a celebrated Hindu festival in Odisha’s Puri, turned into a chaotic scene when several devotees reported feeling suffocated and fainted due to the scorching heat and high humidity. The incident occurred on June 25, as thousands of devotees thronged the streets to catch a glimpse of the sacred chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
According to sources, the state Minister Mukesh Mahaling reported that one or two devotees collapsed due to the extreme weather conditions. The rescue teams were quickly deployed to the scene, who rushed the affected individuals to the nearby hospital for medical attention.
A video circulating on social media shows ambulances racing to the incident spot, as devotees made way for them to cross, providing a glimpse into the frantic situation. The video also captures the chaos and panic that ensued as people struggled to breathe in the sweltering heat.
While the exact number of people affected is yet to be disclosed, it is clear that the heat and humidity took a toll on many devotees who had gathered to participate in the festivities. The Jagannath Rath Yatra, a nine-day festival, is one of the most revered and popular Hindu festivals in India, attracting millions of devotees from across the country and abroad.
The incident highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of devotees during such large-scale events. While the organizers and authorities work tirelessly to ensure a smooth and successful celebration, it is crucial to prioritize the health and comfort of the participants.
The scorching heat and high humidity in Puri, which is known for its tropical climate, certainly contributed to the suffocation and fainting incidents. Temperatures soared to 40°C (104°F) on the day of the festival, making it one of the hottest days of the year. The humidity, which typically rises during the summer months, added to the discomfort, making it difficult for people to breathe.
The authorities have been working to ensure that the devotees are provided with adequate facilities, including water and shade, to help them cope with the heat. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, and it is essential that the authorities take necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing the health and comfort of devotees during such large-scale events.
As the festival continues, it is crucial that the authorities and organizers take necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future. This includes providing adequate facilities, ensuring proper crowd management, and taking necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
The incident also raises questions about the preparedness of the authorities to handle such situations. While the rescue teams responded quickly to the incident, it is essential that the authorities have a comprehensive plan in place to deal with such emergencies.
In conclusion, the incident at the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing the health and comfort of devotees during such large-scale events. While the authorities and organizers work to ensure a smooth and successful celebration, it is crucial that they also take necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
