Simhachalam Chandanotsavam Turns Tragic as Wall Collapses, Leaving Eight Dead

A tragic incident occurred during the Chandanotsavam festival of Simhachalam Appanna Swamy in Visakhapatnam district, resulting in the death of eight devotees. A cement wall collapsed near the ₹300 ticket counter due to a sudden storm, leading to this fatal accident. Four other individuals sustained serious injuries.

Thousands of devotees had gathered for the Chandanotsavam celebrations to witness the Nijaroopa Darshanam of Simhachalam Appanna Swamy. At midnight on Tuesday, heavy rainfall struck Simhachalam. The wall that collapsed was situated near a shopping complex on the route from Simhagiri bus stand to the temple entrance, where the ₹300 ticket queue was organized.

Responding swiftly, personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities arrived at the scene and initiated rescue operations. Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, Visakhapatnam District Collector Harendhira Prasad, and Commissioner of Police Shankha Brata Bagchi visited the site and supervised the relief efforts.

The deceased included three women and five men. Their bodies were transported to King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam. The injured were also taken to the hospital for treatment.