The Eastern Voice correspondent

Puri: The 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri turned tragic when a severe crowd surge along the Bada Danda (Grand Road) led to two deaths and nearly 100 to 200 people being hospitalised.

The incident happened near Marichikote Chowk at around 1:00 PM. As a large crowd of devotees moved to make way for an emergency ambulance, the sudden rush triggered a localised stampede. In the heavy crowd and humid weather, many people fell, suffocated, or were injured. Medical officials confirmed that a 35-year-old man from Cuttack died after suffering a cardiac arrest, while an elderly devotee also collapsed and died. Around 100 to 200 others were taken to the hospital with fractures and severe dehydration.

Heavy rain and delays in the rituals further affected the procession, forcing the temple administration to stop the chariot pulling midway through the evening. Lord Jagannath’s chariot remained near the Lion’s Gate overnight. After the morning rituals are completed, the chariot pulling will officially resume today, as devotees continue the journey towards the Gundicha Temple.