Goa Stampede at Lairai Zatra: 6 Dead, Over 80 Injured

Goa : In a tragic turn of events, six people lost their lives and over 80 others were injured in a stampede that broke out during the Shree Lairai Zatra festival in Shirgao village of Bicholim, Goa, on Saturday morning. The annual religious event had drawn thousands of devotees to the temple to witness the ‘dhond’ ritual, where barefoot participants walk across a bed of burning embers—a centuries-old tradition observed with deep religious fervor.

The stampede occurred in the early hours as a massive crowd surged forward to participate in and witness the fiery ritual. The overwhelming rush led to chaos, resulting in the deaths and injuries. Eyewitnesses said the stampede began when a large group tried to enter a narrow path leading to the ritual site, causing people to fall and get trampled.

Emergency services were activated immediately. The injured were rushed to Bicholim Health Centre, Mapusa District Hospital, and Goa Medical College and Hospital in Bambolim. Many are undergoing treatment for trauma, fractures, and other injuries. Some are said to be in critical condition.

Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant visited the injured at Mapusa District Hospital and assured families of full support. “We are doing everything possible to ensure proper treatment and support to the victims and their families,” he stated. The state government has ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the stampede and the adequacy of crowd control measures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a post on social media, PM Modi said, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the unfortunate stampede during the Shree Lairai Zatra festival in Goa. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.” He added that the local administration is providing necessary assistance to those affected.

Officials confirmed that relief and rescue teams, along with police and fire personnel, were deployed promptly to manage the aftermath. The state disaster management authority is closely monitoring the situation.