An elephant went out of control due to the loud DJ music at the Ahmedabad Rath Yatra. Four people were injured in the stampede. The Forest Department immediately took action and brought the elephants under control.
Ahmedabad: An unexpected incident occurred during the 148th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Ahmedabad. An elephant participating in the procession suddenly went out of control due to the loud music from a DJ. The elephant's sudden movement caused chaos among the thousands of devotees present. It was reported that three elephants became uncontrollable, with one running into the Khadia area. The incident resulted in injuries to 3-4 people, including a media person.
Loud DJ Sound Caused the Elephant to Go Out of Control
The atmosphere during the Rath Yatra is festive. DJs are set up at various locations, and bhajans, kirtans, or music are played at a high volume. A similar atmosphere existed near the Khadia area, where an elephant was startled by the loud DJ sound and ran out of control. The other two elephants were also affected by this, and the situation went out of control for a while.
Three to Four People Injured
In this unexpected stampede, three to four people were injured. One of the injured was a media person, who was present near the incident during the coverage. Fortunately, the elephants did not trample anyone directly. People immediately ran away upon seeing the elephants, preventing any serious injuries. The injured were taken to the hospital with the help of 108 ambulances.
The Forest Department and a Team of Doctors Managed the Situation
Mahouts and teams from the Forest Department always accompany the elephants participating in the Rath Yatra. After the incident, the zoo superintendent, doctors, and the Forest Department team immediately reached the spot. The team had tranquilizers and other necessary equipment. The team of doctors injected the elephants to calm them down and then brought them under control.
The Yatra Had to Be Halted for 15 Minutes
It took approximately 15 minutes to bring the elephants under control. During this time, the procession had to be halted, and traffic was also disrupted in the Khadia area's lanes. As soon as the elephants were brought under control, they were brought to the main route and tied up, and the procession was restarted.
Warning for Local Administration and Organizers
This incident serves as a warning to the organizers and the administration that there is a need to strengthen safety standards in large religious events like the Rath Yatra. Permission for DJs or loud sound equipment should be limited, especially in areas where animals or elephants are present.
Rath Yatra Resumes, Relief Among Devotees
The Rath Yatra resumed after a 15-minute break. The elephants were brought under control on the main route, and special instructions were given to the mahouts. The administration appealed to the devotees to maintain restraint and discipline. The remaining part of the Yatra concluded peacefully and with order.
