Raipur
A 28-year-old woman died and 16 others sustained injuries after a cable car snapped at the Khallari Mata temple in Mahasamund district on Sunday. The accident occurred during the ongoing Chaitra Navratri festival when devotees were visiting the hill-top shrine.
The deceased has been identified as Ayushi Dhaware, a resident of Rajatalab in Raipur. Among the 16 injured, the condition of four remains critical.
The incident took place when a trolley carrying pilgrims downwards lost balance after the cable snapped. The trolley crashed against the hillside and fell approximately 20 feet. A second trolley ascending the hill also lost its balance and crashed, injuring the occupants. Most of the victims are residents of Raipur.
Local villagers and police personnel initiated rescue operations immediately, transporting the injured to the hospital in private vehicles.
Witnesses alleged that the accident was a result of poor maintenance. “There is a massive rush due to Navratri. Had the authorities ensured regular safety audits and maintenance of the ropeway, this tragedy could have been averted,” a local resident said.
The Khallari Mata temple is situated on a hilltop 25 km south of Mahasamund. Devotees usually climb 800 steps to reach the shrine, which many bypass by using the ropeway service. The site holds historical significance, as it is believed the Pandavas visited this hill during their exile.
Mahasamund Collector has ordered an investigation into the cause of the cable failure. The district administration stated that strict action will be taken against those found responsible for safety lapses.
