Puri(Newshub Desk): The state government has escalated its investigation into the tragic stampede that marred the Rath Yatra celebrations near Gundicha Temple, claiming three lives and triggering widespread concern over crowd safety.
Development Commissioner Anu Garg, who is spearheading the inquiry, commenced the process of recording eyewitness accounts today at the Circuit House in Puri, starting at 3 PM. Seventeen testimonies had already been documented earlier in Bhubaneswar.
As part of a transparent and evidence-based approach, authorities have urged the public to submit video footage relevant to the incident via email to puritragedy.enquiry@odisha.gov.in by July 20.
The inquiry panel, comprising top officials including the Puri Collector, SP, and Shree Jagannath Temple Administration representatives, conducted an on-site inspection to assess logistical lapses and crowd control measures.
A comprehensive report is expected within a month. Officials emphasised the role of community support in reconstructing the incident timeline and implementing safeguards for future events.
