Tragedy Strikes at Manakulangara Temple Festival: Elephant Agitation Causes Fatal Stampede

Three individuals lost their lives as a stampede erupted at the Manakulangara Temple following the agitation of elephants due to crackers bursting. The chaos resulted in the collapse of a building wall. State officials are investigating potential rule violations while hospitals prepare to treat the injured.

Three lives were lost and around 20 people suffered injuries during a stampede at the Manakulangara Temple festival near Koyilandy, as excited elephants reacted to the sound of bursting crackers. The chaos led to a partial building collapse, causing the tragic deaths.

Local authorities, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, mourn the incident's tragic outcome. The situation escalated when the elephants charged, causing panic among the crowd, and culminating in a disastrous stampede.

In response, state officials, including Forest Minister A K Saseendran and Health Minister Veena George, ordered immediate investigations into the possible breach of state elephant management rules, and special medical arrangements for those injured.

(With inputs from agencies.)