Thanjavur: Eleven people, including three boys, were killed in Tamil Nadu due to electrocution while several left injured during a temple chariot procession near Thanjavur early Wednesday, police said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence and announced Rs 2 lakh ex gratia to kin of the deceased.
PMO tweeted: “Deeply pained by the mishap in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. I hope those injured recover soon: PM Narendra Modi”
PMO tweeted: “Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to the mishap in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM Narendra Modi.”
Inspector-General of Police, Central Zone, V Balakrishnan said a Saivite prayer club formed by Kalimedu villagers organised the chariot procession in remembrance of 7th century Tamil poet-saint Sri Appar. The incident occurred during the annual Chithirai festival.
The chariot procession carrying the image of Sri Appar or Thirunavukkarasar on Tuesday midnight was being pulled by a large number of devotees. A 25- to 30-feet electrical serial bulb decoration, atop the chariot, came into contact with a high voltage line at around 12.45 am as the procession was underway.
The chariot went up in flames and 10 people were killed on the spot. Thirteen others, who sustained injuries were rushed to the Thanjavur Medical College Hospital, where a 13-year-old boy succumbed to injuries Wednesday morning.
The condition of another person is also critical. A probe is underway. (UNI)
