‘Not act of fate’, Goa temple stampede that killed 6 result of lapses, ‘fractured accountability’: Probe panel

The recent stampede at a Goa temple claimed six lives. A probe panel investigating the incident has concluded that it resulted from lapses in safety measures and fractured accountability. The tragedy occurred during the Shigmo festival at Bhagwan Mahavir Temple in Sattari, North Goa, where thousands of people gathered to celebrate the event. The overcrowding, combined with a lack of proper safety protocols, led to the devastating stampede.

The panel emphasized that this was not a mere act of fate. The investigation revealed multiple preventable mistakes that contributed to the disaster. Temple authorities failed to anticipate the overwhelming crowd. They did not implement adequate crowd control measures. Additionally, the temple lacked sufficient entry and exit points, which made it difficult to manage the large gathering effectively. The absence of enough security personnel to monitor the situation further exacerbated the problem.

The panel also found a breakdown in communication between the temple authorities, local officials, and law enforcement. The lack of coordination played a significant role in the chaos that unfolded. Despite being a popular destination for large events, the temple had not updated its safety procedures in years. This failure to prioritize safety and planning ultimately resulted in the loss of lives.

In response to the findings, the authorities have promised to take immediate action. They are considering implementing stricter safety regulations for large public gatherings. The probe panel recommended several measures, including mandatory crowd control protocols, regular safety audits, and better coordination between event organizers and law enforcement.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of public safety in high-traffic areas, particularly during festivals or events that draw large crowds. Authorities must prioritize crowd management and safety to prevent such disasters in the future.