Khaberni - An official in the state of Andhra Pradesh, southern India, said that a stampede resulted in the deaths of at least nine people and injuries to others early this Saturday.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan added that the stampede occurred while visitors were gathering at the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple in Srikakulam city during a religious event.
Kalyan stated in a release, "An investigation will be conducted into this tragic incident," adding that the temple is managed by individuals from the private sector. He estimated the death toll at nine people.
State Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy mentioned that up to 25,000 visitors gathered at the temple, which has a capacity of only about 2,000 people, leading to the stampede.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on the "X" website, said the government will pay compensation of 200,000 rupees ($2,300) to the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees ($570) to the injured.
Senior police officer K V Maheswara Reddy told the Associated Press (AP) that a preliminary investigation indicates that a metal barrier designed to keep worshippers in line at the temple broke, causing an uncontrolled flow of the crowd.
A senior official in the local government, Swapnil Dinkar Pundkar, expressed concerns that more fatalities may occur.
