At least 6 dead, several injured in stampede at Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar

Haridwar, Uttarakhand: At least six people have died in a stampede at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar after a huge crowd gathered at the shrine, officials confirmed on Friday.

Speaking to PTI, Haridwar Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Singh Dobal said that the rumour of an electric current, where the stairs to the temple begin, sent the devotees into a panic, leading to the stampede. About 35 people were rushed to the hospital, and six of them died, he added.

The incident took place around 9.30 am.

Speaking to ANI, Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that six people have died in the incident. The visuals from the accident site showed the injured being taken to the hospital in ambulances, with several others receiving treatment.

The stampede occurred during a heavy rush of devotees for Shraavana.

In a tweet, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said, "SDRF, local police, and other rescue teams have reached the site and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. I am in constant contact with the local administration regarding this matter, and the situation is being closely monitored..."

Eyewitnesses reported chaos as people began pushing each other while waiting in queues, resulting in panic and a sudden rush, reported IANS. 

Every year, Haridwar sees a massive influx of pilgrims during the month of Shravan, especially at the revered Har Ki Pauri and Mansa Devi Temple.

This year, however, the situation turned grim due to an overwhelming crowd, triggering a stampede that has once again spotlighted the issue of crowd management at religious gatherings.

This tragic incident adds to the growing number of stampedes that have occurred across India in 2025. So far, over 50 people have lost their lives in similar incidents at religious sites, railway stations, and public events.