7 devotees killed after wall of Simhachalam temple collapses in Andhra Pradesh

At least seven devotees—including three women—lost their lives and several others sustained injuries following the collapse of a retaining wall near the Simhachalam Hilltop Temple in the early hours of Wednesday, April 30. The mishap occurred as thousands had gathered to witness the sacred Nijaroopa Darshan of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy during the Chandanotsavam festival, one of the most significant religious events in Andhra Pradesh.

The incident took place between 3:30 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., while devotees were standing in the ₹300 special queue. Sudden heavy rainfall and powerful gusts of wind battered the region, causing the wall—located near an under-construction shopping complex close to the Simhagiri Bus Stop—to collapse, trapping many under the debris.

Immediate rescue operations were launched by NDRF personnel, who rushed to the spot alongside the local police. District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad, Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat, and Police Commissioner Shankabrata Bagchi arrived on-site to supervise emergency measures.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, expressing deep sorrow, stated on social media platform X, “The incident occurred due to intense rain and wind. I have directed the district administration to ensure the injured receive the best medical care and am personally monitoring the situation.”

Home Minister V. Anitha acknowledged the high-velocity winds as a probable cause and assured a comprehensive probe into the structural integrity of the wall. Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy also visited the site and pledged strict action following the inquiry.

Opposition leader and former CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed heartbreak over the incident, describing it as “deeply painful” that devotees lost their lives while seeking divine blessings. He urged the state to extend full support to the bereaved families and ensure top-tier medical treatment for the injured.

The Chandanotsavam festival annually draws thousands to the ancient temple, but the latest tragedy has brought to light serious concerns over safety preparedness and infrastructure standards at major religious sites.