19 dead in stampede at Rajghat bridge near Varanasi

Highlights:

19 killed (14 females & 5 males) and over 20 are likely to be injured in a stampede ahead of a religious event at the Rajghat bridge between Varanasi and Chandauli border.

The incident took place when thousands of followers of religious leader Jai Gurudev were on their way to Domri village on the banks of Ganga to take part in the two-day camp.

Chandauli, Oct 15: Ninteen people were killed and 60 others injured in a stampede at Rajghat bridge between Varanasi and Chandauli where a large number of people had gathered for a religious event this afternoon.

The incident took place when thousands of followers of religious leader Jai Gurudev were on their way to Domri village on the banks of Ganga to take part in the two-day camp, police said.

19 people were killed while 60 others were injured. Five of them are stated to be in a serious condition, District Magistrate Chandauli, Kumar Prashant said.

Senior officials of police and administration have rushed to the spot to carry out relief and rescue measures.

Meanwhile, a government spokesman in Lucknow said that the situation in Chandauli is being monitored and all necessary measures were being taken.

An inquiry will be instituted to find out the cause of the stampede, he said.

Stampede during Baba Jai Gurudev's sabha in Varanasi. More details awaited

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 15, 2016

Death toll in stampede during Baba Jai Gurdev's sabha in Varanasi rises to 14 (Graphic content) pic.twitter.com/dWX0eo56R3

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 15, 2016

Varanasi stampede: 19 brought dead, out of which 15 females, and 4 males. Four injured, says doctor pic.twitter.com/P43VR5EHQ0

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 15, 2016

There was a lot of chaos, even we were pushed. Many people have died including my mother: Eyewitness #VaranasiStampede pic.twitter.com/3TJrORc1C1

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 15, 2016

Varanasi stampede: 19 brought dead, out of which 15 females, and 4 males. Four injured, says doctor (visuals from the hospital) pic.twitter.com/N11e5LJs3x

— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 15, 2016

I have spoken to officials & asked them to ensure all possible help to those affected due to the stampede in Varanasi.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2016

Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the stampede in Varanasi. Condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers with those injured.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2016

PTI