Gorakhpur, October 22 (TNA) Three people were killed and at least nine others injured after a Durga idol procession came into contact with an overhead high-tension electricity wire in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur district on Wednesday evening.
The incident took place in the Gulariha police station area near Ayodhya Prasad Chauhan village, as devotees were carrying the idol on a tractor-trolley for immersion. A metal frame or rod attached to the vehicle reportedly touched the live wire, sending an electric current through the trolley and surrounding structures.
The victims suffered severe electric-shock injuries. Police and local residents rushed the injured to nearby hospitals, including BRD Medical College, for treatment. Initial reports put the number of injured at nine, while other local reports said as many as 10 or 12 people were hurt.
The deceased were identified in local reports as Chandan, Vicky and Lucky. Vicky and Lucky were reportedly brothers, and their ages were stated to be between 17 and 21 years.
The procession was reportedly moving towards Kolhua Ghat when the accident occurred. Officials said the precise circumstances, including whether the height of the idol structure and the overhead line clearance were properly assessed, would be examined.
Authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident. Local reports said disciplinary action was taken against an electricity-department junior engineer and two police personnel, while the services of three contractual line workers were terminated.
The tragedy has renewed concerns over safety arrangements during religious processions, particularly the movement of tall idols, decorative structures and sound systems beneath overhead power lines. Officials are expected to review procession routes and safety protocols before further immersion events.