In the aftermath of a tragic stampede that claimed six lives and left over 70 injured, the Goa government has announced the cancellation of all state-supported events and public celebrations for the next three days.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday during the annual Shree Devi Lairai Zatra at Shirgao village in North Goa, a popular religious gathering that attracts tens of thousands of devotees. According to officials, the stampede was triggered when a group of people standing on a slope near the temple lost their footing, leading to a chain reaction of people falling and trampling each other in the densely packed crowd.
“In view of the tragic stampede incident… and as an expression of condolences to the departed and their families, the Government of Goa directs that all government-supported festive programmes and public celebrations scheduled over the next three days be cancelled or postponed,” stated a government circular signed by Shreyas D’Silva, Under Secretary of the General Administration Department.
Police officials reported that between 30,000 to 40,000 people were present at the temple when the stampede occurred. Director General of Police Alok Kumar said the crowd size and topography contributed to the accident. “Some were standing on a slope, and a few persons fell, causing others to tumble. It happened in a matter of seconds,” he explained.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visited the site later in the day and expressed his condolences. Emergency medical teams were rushed to the scene, and the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Local authorities have also launched an investigation to determine the exact cause and to identify any lapses in crowd control and safety management.
The government’s directive to suspend events applies to all heads of departments, government corporations, and autonomous bodies. Officials have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the order.
The Shirgao Zatra is a deeply rooted cultural and spiritual event in Goa, drawing devotees from across the state and beyond. The tragedy has cast a shadow over the celebrations and raised serious concerns about safety protocols at mass gatherings.
Authorities are urging the public to remain calm and cooperate with officials as they assess the situation and take measures to prevent such incidents in the future. A detailed report is expected to be released following the conclusion of the investigation.
Sources By Agencies