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Major accident during Rath Yatra in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 60 feet high chariot overturned… Seven people seriously injured.

By Samira Vishwas

Vellore: A major accident occurred during a traditional temple festival organized in Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. During the procession, the approximately 60 feet high chariot suddenly became unbalanced and overturned, causing chaos on the spot. At least seven people were seriously injured in this accident. The injured were immediately admitted to the nearest hospital, where their treatment is ongoing.

The incident occurred during the Maynakollai festival, which is celebrated in memory of the dead. On this occasion, a large number of devotees gather and a grand Rath Yatra is taken out with traditional customs. According to eyewitnesses, while pulling the chariot, it suddenly lost its balance and the heavy structure tilted to one side and overturned.

Chaos amidst celebration

Hundreds of devotees were involved in this procession taken out as part of Maynakolai festival. The chariot was decorated with attractive decorations and religious symbols. As the chariot moved forward, it suddenly lost its balance while trying to change its direction. As soon as the giant structure fell on the ground, the people present nearby were hit by it.

Local people and organizers immediately started relief work. A lot of effort had to be done to bring out the injured. Police and administrative officials also reached the spot and controlled the situation. The program was stopped for some time after the accident.

A similar accident happened in 2024 also

This is not the first time that an accident has occurred during the Rath Utsav of this temple. Even in the year 2024, the chariot overturned while preparing to carry the idol of Angalaparameswari Amman to the banks of Palaru river. At that time also the devotees were trying to turn the chariot, when its balance got disturbed and the upper part collapsed.

In that incident, 30-year-old Vimalraj Venmani was trapped under the chariot, causing a wave of mourning in the area. The incidents that have taken place in two consecutive years have raised serious questions on the security arrangements of the Rath Yatra.

Questions raised on security arrangements

After such incidents continuously, demand is being raised to review the security arrangements at the local level. The need for better technical and administrative systems is being felt to control large and heavy chariots. It is the responsibility of both the organizers and the administration to ensure the safety of the devotees.

At present, the condition of the injured people is being monitored and the reasons for the accident are being investigated.

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