DHAKA: At least two women were killed and fifteen others injured on Saturday in a stampede during the rath yatra in Puri.

Festivities during the world famous festival were marred by stampede-like situation during pulling of chariots on the Grand Avenue in which two women were killed and around fifteen others injured, a senior officer said, reports TOI.

"Two women died in the incident and some injured persons were taken to district headquarters hospital," chief district medical officer (CDMO) of Puri, Gyanendra Sahu said.

Two of the injured persons were referred to SCB Medical College as their condition was critical, he said.

Barring the mishap caused by pushing and shoving on the Grand Road which saw massive surge of humanity, the festival passed of peacefully, DGP Sanjeev Marik said.

Lakhs of devotees from across the world converged at the pilgrim town to witness commencement of the nine-day journey of the new idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra to Gundicha Temple and back to their abode.
Amid tight security, the century's first Nabakalebar rath yatra of Lord Jagannath began in Puri on Saturday with fanfare, religious fervour, enthusiasm and a spirit of camaraderie.

Devotees from all walks of life have been making a beeline to the town since Friday for the world famous annual festival of chariots to catch a glimpse of the presiding deities of the 12th century shrine of Sri Jagannath.

BDST: 1540 HRS, JULY 19, 2015
RS