Hyderabad: At least five people lost their lives due to electrocution and four others sustained injuries after a chariot taken out as part of Sri Krishnashtami celebrations came into contact with an overhead power line in Hyderabad.

The tragic incident took place late on Sunday night in Gokulnagar, Ramanthapur, during a religious procession.

The Rath was being manually carried by a group of nine individuals after the vehicle initially transporting it broke down. The group received a severe electric shock when the chariot touched a high-tension wire, throwing them to the ground from the impact.

The incident caused panic among the crowd, with participants scattering in fear.

Police arrived promptly and began rescue operations. The injured were given first aid at the scene before being taken to a private hospital, where doctors declared five of them brought dead.

The deceased have been identified as Krishna (21), Rudra Vikas (39), Rajendra Reddy (45), Srikant Reddy (35), and Suresh Yadav (34).

Among the injured is Srinivas, the gunman of Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy. All injured individuals are currently receiving treatment in hospital.

According to police, the incident occurred near the Yadav Function Hall in Gokulnagar when the Rath came into contact with a live high-tension cable overhead.

The bodies of the deceased have been transferred to the mortuary at the government-run Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad.

A sombre atmosphere has engulfed the area following the incident. Police have registered a case and launched an investigation.

Leaders from across the political spectrum have expressed condolences and called upon the government to offer financial aid to the families of the deceased, as well as ensure the best possible medical care for those injured.

In a separate incident on Sunday night, two groups of youths clashed during Krishnashtami celebrations in Hyderabad’s Kukatpally area.

One individual sustained bleeding injuries in the altercation. Police believe the fight may have been sparked by an old rivalry between the groups. A case has been registered and further investigation is underway.

IANS