15 of 26 Kasibugga temple stampede victims discharged

Visakhapatnam: Fifteen persons injured in the Kasibugga temple stampede were discharged from the Palasa Kidney Research Centre and Super Specialty Hospital on Sunday, while 11 others continue to receive treatment at the Palasa Community Health Centre (CHC). Officials said two patients are recovering well and the rest are expected to be discharged within three days.

Health minister Satyakumar Yadav confirmed that the injuries occurred during the stampede at Lord Venkateswara Temple in Kasibugga, Srikakulam district, on Saturday. "Fifteen people were sent home after receiving proper medical care. Doctors conducted X-rays and other examinations, and family consent was obtained before discharge," he said.

Yadav added that the medical team remains on high alert, with doctors and paramedical staff closely monitoring the remaining patients. One individual was referred to GEMS Hospital in Srikakulam for surgery. The minister reviewed treatment protocols along with senior officials.

It may be recalled that nine people died and dozens were injured in the stampede at a private temple in Kasibugga on Saturday. The crowd reportedly swelled to around 15,000 at a venue designed for just a few thousand, leading to a railing collapse and widespread panic.