A night of devotion and celebration during Ganesh Chaturthi ended in unimaginable tragedy for the community in Karnataka’s Hassan district. A massive truck, reportedly speeding, crashed directly into a procession of thousands of devotees who were participating in the annual festivities. The joyful sounds of singing and drums were replaced by screams of panic and pain as the vehicle plowed through the crowd, creating a scene of devastation that has left the entire region in mourning.
Local hospitals have been overwhelmed with casualties, reporting at least 20 injured, many of whom are in critical condition. The confirmed death toll is expected to rise as authorities work through the night. First responders, including local police and volunteers, acted quickly to evacuate the wounded, but the scale of the incident has strained resources. The community has united in grief, with many residents offering help and support to the affected families.
In the wake of the disaster, serious questions are being raised about event safety and traffic management during major religious processions. Community leaders and public officials are demanding a full investigation to determine responsibility and prevent such a catastrophe from happening again. The incident has not only resulted in profound loss but has also shaken the collective sense of security during public cultural and religious events, leaving a lasting impact on the community’s spirit.
