Chandrababu: One member panel set up to probe Godavari Pushkaralu stampede

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday stated that a one-member panel has been constituted to conduct a probe into the Pushkaralu stampede. On day one of 12-day festival Godavari Pushkaram, 27 lives were claimed when a stampede broke on the banks of River Godavari at Pushkar Ghat in Rajahmundry.

Chandrababu along with senior district and police officials inspected various ghats on Tuesday night and looked into the necessary arrangements for smooth movement of pilgrims on Wednesday which is is AadiAmavasa - a day considered auspicious for performing rituals. Terming the stampede as an unfortunate incident, Chandrababu said that strict action will taken against the officials who are responsible.

The Chief Minister also appealed to the pilgrims not to swarm only one ghat and use other ghats as well. Also, Chandrababu added that keeping in view of the large number of people coming in, restrictions have been relaxed and the pilgrims can take bath in some of the VIP ghats.Chandrababu Naidu also visited hospitals where many injured in the stampede are undergoing treatment and assured them of providing better medical facilities.

Meanwhile, the government has stepped up security after the stampede and made necessary arrangements – monitoring the situation from the Control room through CCTVs cameras and moving pilgrims from one ghat to another to avoid over-crowding at one ghat.