News Flash Daily
19 February 
Heavy Rush at Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Triggers Chaos Near Ambar Khana; Situation Brought Under Control, Injured Shifted to Hospital
Pune: A stampede-like situation broke out during Shiv Jayanti celebrations at Shivneri Fort in Maharashtra’s Junnar taluka late at night, leaving several devotees injured. Authorities confirmed that the situation is now under control and no casualties have been reported.
The incident occurred around midnight as lakhs of devotees from across the state gathered at the historic fort, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, to participate in the grand Shiv Janmotsav celebrations.
Midnight Surge Leads to Chaos
According to officials, heavy crowding near the Ambar Khana area led to confusion and panic as authorities struggled to regulate the sudden surge of devotees. Large numbers had begun arriving at the fort from midnight onwards, resulting in severe congestion on the approach roads.
Narrow entry points such as Hatti Darwaja and Ganesh Darwaja reportedly became choke points as devotees attempted to enter simultaneously. Witnesses indicated that overcrowding and limited space near these access gates created a chaotic environment.
Preliminary reports suggest that inadequate regulation of entry and exit routes, coupled with high footfall, contributed to the stampede-like situation.
Injured Shifted to Hospital, No Fatalities
Several devotees, including women and children, sustained injuries during the commotion and were immediately rushed to the Junnar Government Hospital for treatment. Officials later confirmed that all injured individuals are stable.
“The situation is under control. The injured have been provided medical assistance, and no casualties have been reported,” a local official said.
Police presence in the area has since been increased, and crowd management measures have been tightened to prevent further incidents.
Grand Shiv Janmotsav Ceremony to Continue
Every year, the Maharashtra government organises a grand Shiv Janmotsav ceremony at Shivneri Fort to mark the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The event traditionally witnesses massive participation and is attended by top state leaders.
Officials confirmed that the scheduled celebration will proceed shortly. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde are expected to attend the ceremony.
Authorities have urged devotees to cooperate with security personnel and follow regulated entry guidelines to ensure safety during the remainder of the celebrations.
