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India orders probe into deadly temple stampede
(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-08-04 16:45 Cries for Help In India, stampedes are not uncommon at temples, where thousands of people often gather to pray during festivals. Witnesses told police how security officials stood helplessly as thousands ran down the slope, breaking barricades and railings. "No one from the police or administration was helping and it was just people helping each other in the pouring rain," Bala said. "There was total chaos everywhere and I saw dead bodies everywhere and blood-soaked survivors crying for help," said Birbal Wadhera, 30, another pilgrim who survived. Witnesses said people were carrying their dead or seriously injured relatives on makeshift slings made from torn clothes. Victims and their relatives said clinics were short-staffed and did not have enough medicines to treat the injured. "I am so shocked that I am trembling in my house and terrified to step out and go to work," Wadhera added. Temple officials said the festival will continue. It is due to end on August 11. |
