Agartala: Six people, including two children, were killed and 15 injured when a Rath came into contact with an overhead high-voltage electric wire at Kumarghat, in Tripura’s Unakoti district on Wednesday.
Police said the incident took place during the Bahuda Yatra — Ulta Rath in Bengali – procession, which marks the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
As soon as the chariot — made of iron and heavily decorated — came into contact with an overhead wire, it caused a surge of electricity and killed six people on the spot, reported NDTV.
Some of those who suffered injuries are in critical condition and fighting for their lives in a nearby hospital.
A high-level investigation has been ordered to determine how the chariot came into contact with the electric wire.
Tripura CM Manik Saha was on way to Kumarghat from Agartala by train to take stock of the situation.
“In a tragic accident at Kumarghat, several pilgrims lost their lives and several others were injured due to electrocution while pulling the ‘Ulta Rath’. I am deeply saddened by this incident. Deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Also, I wish the injured persons a speedy recovery. The state government stands by them in this difficult time,” the CM said.
