Six Dead, 75 Injured in Stampede at Sree Lairai Devi Temple Festival in Goa

Panaji: Tragedy struck in the early hours of Saturday during the annual festival at the Sree Lairai Devi Temple in Shirgao village, North Goa, as a stampede claimed the lives of six devotees and left at least 75 others injured.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane confirmed the casualties, stating that four of the deceased, including two women, were brought dead to Asilo Hospital in Mapusa, while two others were declared dead at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Bicholim. All six victims reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained in the chaotic rush during the temple’s crowded "Lairai Zatra" celebrations.
Emergency medical services were swiftly activated across the state. “A total of 75 people injured in the incident have been treated across various government health facilities, including Asilo Hospital, CHCs in Bicholim and Sankhali, and the Goa Medical College (GMC),” Rane said.
18 patients remained under treatment at Asilo Hospital, three at CHC Bicholim, and one at CHC Sankhali. Others with minor injuries were discharged after receiving first aid.
The state health department deployed 10 advanced life support (ALS) ambulances to the site. Patients requiring intensive care were transferred to GMC, which remains on high alert.
“Our healthcare workers acted promptly. First responders at the CHCs carried out on-site triage and stabilisation efficiently, saving lives in a critical window,” said Rane.
Authorities have ensured the availability of emergency medicines, adequate medical staff, and psychological counselling for survivors and the grieving families. The minister also announced an emergency review meeting with the heads of the Health Department, GMC, and the Secretary (Health) to assess the ongoing medical response.

An investigation into the circumstances that led to the stampede is expected to follow.