Tragedy Strikes at Shri Lairai Devi Temple During Annual Zatra in Goa
Goa temple stampede — a phrase that’s now etched in tragedy as a religious celebration turned into a nightmare late Friday night. At least six people lost their lives, and more than 15 others were injured in a stampede during the Shri Lairai Zatra, held at the revered Shri Lairai Devi Temple in Shirgao, North Goa.
According to North Goa Superintendent of Police Akshat Kaushal, the stampede took place while thousands of devotees gathered for the dhondachi zatra — a traditional and emotionally charged ritual where participants walk barefoot across burning embers in a show of devotion.
What Happened at the Shri Lairai Zatra?
The exact cause of the stampede is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that overcrowding and a sudden surge in movement may have led to panic among the gathered devotees.
The Shri Lairai Zatra is one of Goa’s largest and most culturally significant religious festivals, attracting tens of thousands of devotees each year. This year’s turnout was no exception, which unfortunately contributed to the high number of casualties.
Official Response and Emergency Measures
Speaking to ANI, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that six people died before they could be shifted to the hospital. He personally visited the community health centre, where the bodies of two deceased individuals are being held, and the district hospital, where ten injured victims are receiving care.
“The rest of the injured are being treated at Goa Medical College, and one of them is in serious condition,” CM Sawant said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached out to CM Sawant to express condolences and offered full support from the central government, taking stock of the situation and ensuring that necessary aid would be provided.
Public Safety Under Scrutiny
The tragic Goa temple stampede has raised serious concerns about crowd management and safety protocols at large religious gatherings in the state. The Goa government has announced an immediate review of safety arrangements at high-footfall religious events.
Experts are calling for improved infrastructure, better crowd control, and real-time monitoring systems to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
What Happens Next?
While authorities continue to investigate the cause of the Goa temple stampede, families of the deceased are left mourning an unimaginable loss. Officials have yet to release the names of the victims, pending notification of next of kin.
As the state recovers from this tragic event, there’s a renewed call for stronger safety regulations at public religious festivals to ensure that devotion doesn’t end in disaster.
For live updates and official news on the Shri Lairai Zatra stampede, follow:
