Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], August 12 (HBTV): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives in the stampede near Mansa Devi Temple in Uttarakhand's Haridwar and announced INR 2 lakh financial assistance for the families of the deceased from Uttar Pradesh.

At least six people were killed and several others injured in the incident, which occurred during a heavy rush of devotees. According to officials, four of those killed were from Uttar Pradesh.

In a post on X, CM Yogi said, ‘The news of the tragic accident on the Shri Mansa Devi Temple road in Haridwar, resulting in the demise of devotees, is extremely painful and heart-wrenching. My condolences are with the grief-stricken families.’

He said officials have been directed to work with the Uttarakhand government to ensure the mortal remains are brought back to the victims' home districts.

‘Instructions have been given to officials to coordinate with the Uttarakhand government to ensure that the mortal remains of the citizens of UP who lost their lives in the accident are transported to their home districts and handed over to their families. Each family of the deceased from Uttar Pradesh in this accident will be provided financial assistance of INR 2 lakh by the UP government,’ the post read.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered a magisterial inquiry and announced ex-gratia of INR 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and INR 50,000 for the injured.

Addressing reporters, CM Dhami said, ‘The injured are being treated. Some have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh. Our priority is that they get good treatment and recover soon. A toll-free number has also been issued. Magisterial inquiry has been ordered and ex-gratia of INR 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and INR 50,000 for the injured, also announced.’

He confirmed that six people died in the incident.

President Droupadi Murmu also expressed her condolences at the loss of lives in the stampede.

In a post on X, President Murmu wrote, ‘The news of the death of many devotees in the stampede accident on the way to the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar is deeply painful. I express my heartfelt condolences to all the grieving families. I pray that all the injured devotees recover quickly.’

(ANI)