Wed Jan 08 18:00:00 UTC 2025: **Six Devotees Killed in Stampede at Tirumala Temple During Vaikuntha Darshan Ticket Distribution**
TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh – A tragic stampede at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh on January 8, 2025, resulted in the death of six devotees and several injuries. The incident occurred during the distribution of Vaikuntha Darshan tickets, a highly sought-after opportunity to visit the inner sanctum of the temple.
According to reports, a large crowd of devotees surged forward when TTD staff released them from Padmavathy Park into the queue line simultaneously. The ensuing crush led to a stampede at Srinivasam, Bairagipatteda, and Satyanarayana Puram centers. One woman, Mallika from Tamil Nadu, was initially taken to a private hospital but succumbed to her injuries while being transferred to Ruia Hospital. Three more fatalities occurred at Ruia Hospital, and two more later died at SVIMS, bringing the total death toll to six.
Several other devotees sustained injuries and were admitted to SIMS and Ruia hospitals for treatment.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, along with Minister Lokesh and Home Minister Anitha, expressed deep grief over the incident. The Chief Minister ordered top officials to the site to oversee rescue operations and ensure the best possible medical care for the injured. He also directed authorities to prevent further untoward incidents and to provide immediate medical assistance to the victims. The Chief Minister is closely monitoring the situation and has instructed district and TTD officials to continuously review the situation.
First Piper 