Indore: A stepwell at a temple in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, collapsed on Thursday, killing at least 12 persons, while 19 people were rescued, according to Indore collector Ilayaraja T. During the Ram Navami festival, the roof of an old "bavdi" (large well) at the Beleshwar Mahadev Jhulelal Temple in Indore collapsed, according to eyewitnesses. It is believed that nearly 25 people may have fallen inside.
The ancient bavdi's roof collapsed as a result of the large number of people who had gathered there.
Police and locals can be seen attempting to rescue the devotees trapped in the collapsed stepwell in a footage posted, Hindustan Times reported.
According to his office, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has taken notice of the incident and has directed regional officials to expedite the rescue effort.
“CMO is in constant touch with the Indore district administration. Top officers of Indore Police and district administration are present at the spot. Efforts are being made to evacuate the devotees. Some people have also been rescued,” the statement read.
The CM said, “It's an unfortunate incident. A rescue operation is underway. 10 people were rescued safely while nine are trapped and will be rescued. Efforts are underway to rescue other people.”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed anguish at the mishap. "Extremely pained by the mishap in Indore. Spoke to CM Shivraj Chouhan Ji and took an update on the situation. The state government is spearheading rescue and relief work at a quick pace. My prayers with all those affected and their families," he tweeted.