Wed Apr 30 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Wall Collapse at Simhachalam Temple Kills 7 During Chandanotsavam
**Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, April 30, 2025** – A tragic incident occurred at the Simhachalam temple during the annual Chandanotsavam festival early this morning. A wall collapsed near the ₹300 ticket counter, resulting in the death of at least seven devotees and injuring ten others. The incident happened around 2:30 AM during a heavy thunderstorm.
The wall, reportedly part of a recently constructed development project near the Appanna temple, crumbled under the force of strong winds and rain, falling onto pilgrims queuing for entry. The death toll may rise as rescue workers continue to search for those possibly trapped under the rubble. Three of the deceased are women.
NDRF and SDRF teams are on the scene conducting rescue operations, assisted by fire and police personnel. Home Minister Anitha and the District Collector are overseeing rescue efforts and assessing the situation. The injured have been transported to KGH hospital. Seventeen ambulances were deployed to facilitate the transport of casualties.
Revenue Minister Ankani Satyaprasad expressed deep grief over the incident, assuring that the government will support the families of the victims and provide the best medical care to the injured. He also assured devotees that there is no need for fear and that large-scale rescue operations are underway. The Home Minister also confirmed that rescue efforts are ongoing and the situation is being monitored closely. The cause of the collapse is under investigation.
First Piper 