New Delhi: Fear erupted during the 148th Rath Yatra celebration in Ahmedabad on Friday when an elephant, part of the procession, suddenly got agitated due to excessive noise and broke a barricade, entering a narrow lane in the Khadia area. The incident resulted in one person getting injured, who was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital.
According to RK Sahu, Superintendent of Kankaria Zoo, the male elephant’s agitation was triggered by loud music and whistle sounds when the procession reached Khadia Gate. However, thanks to the quick response of the mahouts on two female elephants, the situation was brought under control, and the procession continued smoothly on its designated route.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Control Room) Komal Vyas confirmed the incident, stating that despite the disruption, the Rath Yatra is proceeding as scheduled. The annual event, which began on Friday morning, features a grand procession with 17 elephants, 100 trucks, and 30 akhadas (local gymnasiums) covering a 16 km route through the old city.
The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, which started from the 400-year-old Jagannath temple, is expected to conclude by 8 pm after making its way through the city’s streets. Thousands of devotees have gathered to participate in the festivities, which passed off peacefully despite the brief incident.
