Visakhapatnam: At least eight deveotees were killed and several others injured in a wall collapse at the Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam during the annual Chandanotsavam festival in the early hours of April 30, 2025. Heavy rains and gusty winds led to the collapse of a cement wall near the ticket counter. Three women were among the victims. Rescue teams fear that more victims may still be trapped under the debris.
The incident took place around 2:30 AM when devotees were waiting in queue lines for the Nijaroopa Darshan of Lord Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. The wall, constructed as part of recent development efforts, could not withstand the heavy downpour and collapsed, falling on the devotees standing nearby.
Rescue operations were promptly initiated by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Seventeen ambulances were deployed to transport the injured to nearby hospitals, including KGH Hospital. Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha and District Collector Harendra Prasad visited the site to oversee the rescue efforts and assess the situation.
Revenue Minister Anagani Satya Prasad expressed deep shock over the incident. He assured assured that the government would provide support to the families of the deceased and ensure proper medical care for the injured. He emphasized that devotees need not panic as extensive rescue operations are underway.
The tragic event has raised concerns about safety measures and infrastructure preparedness at major religious gatherings. The state government has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident to determine the cause and prevent such occurrences in the future.
