Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh: A pilgrimage turned tragic on Sunday when a ropeway trolley crashed at the renowned Khallari Mata temple, killing one woman and seriously injuring four others. The accident occurred around 10:30 AM on the fourth day of Chaitra Navratri festivities.
The victims were returning after offering prayers at the hilltop shrine when the ropeway cable suddenly snapped. The trolley, with five devotees on board, plummeted approximately 20 feet before crashing into the rocky terrain below. The deceased has been identified as a young woman.
The four injured, which include children and elderly individuals, suffered severe injuries in the fall. Local villagers and police immediately launched a rescue operation. The injured were first rushed to the Bagbahara Community Health Centre and later referred to the district hospital for advanced treatment.
Chaos Amid Festive Crowd
The incident triggered widespread panic and chaos among the thousands of devotees present at the temple for the auspicious Navratri festival. Eyewitnesses reported that the trolley became uncontrollable after the cable broke, leading to the fatal crash.
Locals have alleged negligence in the maintenance and operation of the ropeway, claiming that a timely safety check could have prevented the tragedy. They stated that the ropeway is a key mode of transport for pilgrims, especially during festivals when the temple sees a massive footfall.
Inquiry Ordered into Accident
Following the incident, the district administration has ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of negligence. The police are currently conducting a preliminary inquiry into the matter.
The Khallari Mata temple, located on a hill in Khallari village about 25 km from Mahasamund, is a major pilgrimage site. It attracts a large number of devotees, particularly during the Chaitra and Kwar Navratri. The temple, which is accessible via a flight of about 800 stairs, is also believed to have been visited by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era.
