The event took place during the annual Chandanotsavam festival, a major event that attracted thousands of devotees to gathering who witnessed the rareness of the gods in their true form. The collapse occurred on the ghats road leading to the temple, with devotees lined up in early morning rituals.
Preliminary reports suggest that massive overnight rains weaken the structure, causing it to collapse. The devotees were standing on the special Rs 300 queue line as the wall gave way.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep pain in the incident, confirming that he had spoken with the regional authorities and directed them to ensure immediate medical care for the injured. “I feel very sad about the death of devotees during Chandanotavam. All necessary assistance will be expanded to the families of the victims,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also expressed condolences and ensured support for the families of the deceased. “It is very unfortunate that such a tragedy happened in the sacred celebrations,” he said.
Former Chief Minister and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy called the incident a “heartbreaking tragedy” and expressed condolences to the victims’ families.
National Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu described the incident as a “huge trauma” and urged health officials to strengthen medical support on site and in the hospital.
Donation Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy confirmed that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team and ambulances have been deployed for rescue and relief efforts. “We have ordered a detailed investigation into the incident. Regional collectors, interior ministers and other senior officials are already on the scene,” he said.
Visakhapatnam Regional Minister Dola Sri Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy pointed out that officials had been working for more than a month to prepare for the festival, adding: “Unfortunately, the unfortunate rains have led to such a tragic result.”
The incident has once again raised concerns about the security and infrastructure preparations for large religious gatherings in Andhra Pradesh when six people were killed in a stampede in Tirumala.
