6 Dead, 15 Injured As Chariot Catches Fire During Rath Yatra In Tripura

Agartala: Six people died and 15 others were injured as a Rath caught fire after coming in contact with a high-tension wire in Tripura's Unakoti district on Wednesday, police said. The incident happened around 4.30 pm in Kumarghat area during the 'Ulta Rath Yatra' festival of Lord Jagannath, they said. During this festival, the sibling deities -- Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhdara and Lord Jagannath -- return to their abode, a week after Rath Yatra.

Thousands of people were pulling the Rath, made of iron, when it came in contact with a 133 kv overhead cable, police said. Six people died on the spot and 15 others received burn injuries, Assistant Inspector General (Law & Order) Jyotishman Das Chowdhury told PTI. The injured were undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital, he said. Their conditions were stated to be critical, officials said. Chief Minister Manik Saha condoled the deaths.

"In a tragic accident at Kumarghat, several pilgrims lost their lives and several others were injured due to electrocution while pulling the 'Ulta Rath'. I am deeply saddened by this incident. Deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

Also, I wish the injured persons a speedy recovery. The state government stands by them in this difficult time," he said.