Tragedy Strikes Chandanotsavam: Temple Wall Collapse Claims Seven Lives

Seven people were killed when a rain-soaked wall collapsed at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam during the Chandanotsavam festival. The incident has sparked accusations of negligence, with government leaders expressing condolences. An inquiry has been ordered and ex-gratia announced for victims' families.

A tragic incident occurred at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam, where seven devotees lost their lives. Early Wednesday morning, a rain-soaked wall collapsed during the Chandanotsavam festival, causing a scene of chaos and distress amidst the annual celebrations.

The Andhra Pradesh government confirmed that seven people died in the queue line, with opposition YSRCP citing negligence as the cause. Prominent leaders, including President Murmu and PM Modi, expressed their condolences, and ex-gratia payments were announced for the deceased's families.

Both state and central authorities have pledged support, while officials attribute the collapse to soil erosion from heavy rains. In response, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu ordered an investigation, promising jobs and compensation to the victims' families. The focus now shifts to enhancing safety protocols to prevent such tragedies.

(With inputs from agencies.)