Tripura: 6 killed, 15 injured as Rath at chariot festival comes into contact with electric wire

SIX people, including two children, were killed while 15 were injured after a Rath (chariot) came into contact with a high-tension overhead wire in Unakoti district of the north-eastern Indian state of Tripura on Wednesday (28).

The tragedy took place when people were celebrating the 'Ulta Rath Yatra' festival of Lord Jagannath.

Sibling deities -- Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Lord Jagannath -- return to their abode, a week after Rath Yatra.

Thousands of people were pulling the chariot at Kumarghat area in the afternoon when it came into contact with the wire, police said.

Six died on the spot while 15 received burn injuries, Jyotishman Das Chowdhury, assistant inspector general, law and order, told PTI.

The injured were undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital, the police officer added.

Their conditions were said to be critical.

Tripura chief minister Manik Saha condoled the devotees' 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.