Chennai: Two people were killed in a stampede during the festivities of Lord Kallazhagar entering River Vaigai in Madurai on Saturday. Over 7 people also suffered injuries in the rush to witness the festivities that were organised after a gap of two years.
The two deceased persons include a middle-aged man and a woman. However, their identities and other details are yet to be known. Their bodies are kept in Madurai GH for identification and autopsy.
As per preliminary details, the stampede took place since many people entered River Vaigai against the order of the district administration.
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Meanwhile, Madurai administration has also given a helpline number 9498042434 for the people to receive information about the deceased or missing persons.
On Saturday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin expressing his condolences to the families of the victims ordered a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each to the family of the deceased members.
The CM also announced Rs 2 lakh to one of the severely injured persons and Rs 1 lakh each to remaining injured people.
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On the 12th day of the Chithirai festivities in Madurai, thousands of devotees gathered at the premises from 4 am to witness Lord Kallazhagar entering into the River Vaigai.
On Saturday, Lord Kallazhagar mounted on his golden horse entered into the River Vaigai between 5.50 am and 6.20 am on Saturday.