The death toll has risen to eight after a 20-foot-long makeshift structure collapsed during the Chandanotsavam festival at the Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Visakhapatnam. The incident that took place during the early hours of Wednesday has left four others injured. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief over the incident. In a post on X, he informed that he is continuously monitoring the situation and have instructed proper medical assistance.

“The death of seven devotees in a wall collapse during the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Chandanotsavam has deeply saddened me. The incident, caused by heavy rains, is truly unfortunate. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I have spoken to the District Collector and SP regarding the situation and instructed that proper medical care be provided to the injured. I am continuously monitoring the situation,” wrote CM Naidu on X.

Rescue Work Completed

Meanwhile, speaking to ANI, Vinay Chan, Principal Secretary of the Endowment Department, stated that it is premature to determine the cause. Chan confirmed that eight people have died and the rescue work has been concluded.
“So it is not appropriate for us to conclude on the reasons for the incident. Prima facie, we have noticed that there was a downpour between 2.30 and 3.30 am in the early hours. We are investigating the incident. Currently, we have information that about eight people have died. All the debris has been cleared. Rescue work has been concluded,” Chan said.

The incident occurred around 2.30 am, stated an SDRF Jawan.

Meanwhile, YSR Congress Party President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed sorrow over the tragic deaths of devotees. He urged the government to provide best medical treatment and appealed to the authorities to extend all necessary support and assistance to the families of the deceased.