Rajahmundry stampede: PM Modi condoles loss of lives, takes stock of situation

New Delhi, July 14: The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the lose of lives due to stampede at Rajahmundry. The PM even called up Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and discussed about the situation.

"Deeply pained at the loss of lives due to stampede at Rajahmundry. My condolences to the families of the deceased and prayers with the injured.

I spoke to CM N Chandrababu Naidu and discussed the situation with him. The State Government is working to restore normalcy," the Prime Minister tweeted.

As many as 13 pilgrims were killed and scores injured in the stampede during Godavari pushkaralu, officials said.

The tragedy occurred when a large number of pilgrims rushed towards one of the gates at Kotagummam pushkar ghat on the banks of Godavari river to take the holy dip.

Chaos prevailed at all the three gates at the ghat in Rajahmundry, a town in East Godavari district.

The bodies of victims, all women, were shifted to Rajahmundry government hospital. The injured were also brought to the hospital, where the condition of some of them is stated to be critical.

Tragedy struck couple of hours after Godavari pushkaralu began on Tuesday morning.

The 12-day pushkaralu, described as Kumbh mela of the south, began in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

OneIndia News

(With inputs from agencies)