In a tragic turn of events, at least six devotees lost their lives and more than 30 were injured during a stampede at the Shri Lairai Devi temple in Bicholim, Goa, early Saturday morning. The incident occurred during the annual Lairai Zatra festival, which had drawn thousands of worshippers from across the region.
What Happened at Lairai Devi Temple?
The stampede reportedly took place around 3 am on May 3, 2025. According to police sources, the chaos began when a person slipped on a steep slope near a narrow approach road to the temple. In the ensuing confusion, the densely packed crowd surged, resulting in multiple people getting trampled.
Emergency services were rushed to the scene, and the injured were immediately transported to multiple facilities including Goa Medical College, North Goa District Hospital in Mapusa, and the Bicholim Primary Health Centre. Among the injured, at least 10 remain in critical condition and are being closely monitored.
Government Response and Condolences
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant personally visited the injured and their families. “Deeply saddened by the tragic stampede at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgaon this morning,” he posted on X. “I am monitoring the situation and ensuring that every necessary measure is being taken.” A formal probe has been ordered into the incident.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences. “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede in Shirgao, Goa. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon,” he said on social media.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi conveyed his sorrow, stating, “The news of the death of several devotees and injury of many others in a stampede during the annual pilgrimage to the Lerai Devi Temple is very sad. I express my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families.”
Heavy Security Was in Place
Despite the presence of over 1,000 police officers from North Goa District Police, the India Reserve Battalion, and the Goa Reserve Police Force, the sudden surge proved overwhelming. Authorities are now evaluating crowd control protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.
Medical Efforts Intensify
Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane confirmed that additional doctors were deployed and a special Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was established to treat critical cases. Emergency teams are working around the clock to provide support to the victims and their families.
Conclusion
This tragedy during one of Goa’s most revered festivals has cast a somber shadow over the region. As families mourn and investigations continue, the incident underscores the urgent need for improved crowd safety measures at religious gatherings in India.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops and official findings emerge from the ongoing inquiry.
