At least 5 dead as temple hall roof collapses in Maharashtra

A major tragedy struck the famous Yeshwadi Maruti Temple in Manavat taluka of Maharashtra's Parbhani district on Saturday when the roof of the temple's Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) suddenly collapsed, as per reports.

At least five devotees lost their lives, while over 25 people were injured in the incident, noted the reports. The accident occurred when a large number of worshippers had gathered at the temple.

According to reports, around 30 to 40 devotees are feared to have been trapped under the debris after the roof gave way. The sudden collapse created panic among the crowd, and many people rushed to escape from the area. Several devotees suffered injuries while trying to move to safety.

Loud cries for help were heard from beneath the rubble as locals and temple visitors immediately began rescue efforts before official teams arrived at the scene, as per reports citing witnesses.

A CCTV video of the incident has also surfaced, showing the moments of panic after the structure collapsed. The footage reportedly captures devotees running in different directions while others became trapped under the fallen roof and debris.

As soon as information about the accident reached authorities, district administration officials, police personnel, fire brigade teams, and disaster response units rushed to the temple complex. Rescue operations were launched immediately, and heavy equipment was brought in to remove the debris and search for survivors.

Several ambulances were deployed to transport the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities have begun an investigation into the incident and are examining the condition of the structure.

Rescue operations continue, and officials are expected to release detailed information regarding the number of casualties and the cause of the tragedy after the operation is completed.