Vrindavan: A heart-wrenching incident has sent shockwaves through Uttar Pradesh as a major accident unfolded in the pilgrimage city of Mathura’s Vrindavan. The upper portion of a wall at the revered Giridhari Bagwala, situated near the Banke Bihari Temple path, collapsed. This event, which occurred around 6 pm, has resulted in a tragic loss of five lives so far, with six others sustaining injuries.
Chaos erupts after ancient wall crumbles
The catastrophe occurred during a time when a significant number of devotees were present along the path, engrossed in their prayers and rituals. Reportedly, a multitude of pilgrims were passing by when the incident transpired. The accident site is merely 200 meters away from the renowned Banke Bihari Ji Temple, near the Sneh Bihari Ji Mandir.
Authorities rush to scene
The local authorities and police promptly arrived at the scene, collaborating with citizens to transport the injured to the district’s combined hospital. Unfortunately, five devotees lost their lives at the hospital due to the severity of their injuries. The District Magistrate, Pulkit Khare, and Senior Superintendent of Police, Shailesh Pandey, have arrived at the accident site to oversee operations and assist in identifying the deceased.
Mathura: बांके बिहारी मंदिर के पास हादसा
◆ मकान का छज्जा ढहा, 5 की मौत
◆ दुसायत मोहल्ले की है घटना #Mathura | #Vrindavan #UttarPradesh pic.twitter.com/MaZyZKlnlc
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Massive turnout during auspicious month
The incident transpired at the revered Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, which had been witnessing an enormous influx of devotees over the past three days due to the culmination of the rare extra month, Adhik Maas, within the auspicious month of Sawan. The narrow lanes of Sankari Kunj, as well as the Banke Bihari and other grand temple complexes, had been accommodating an overwhelming number of devotees.
As investigations unfold, questions regarding the structural integrity of the ancient site and the management of the massive gathering during this significant period remain at the forefront. The incident is a stark reminder of the need for diligent oversight and safety measures during crowded spiritual events.