Fire breaks out near laddu distribution center at Tirupati temple amidst heavy crowd

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A massive fire erupted at the laddu distribution counter of the Lord Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati on Monday afternoon. The temple administration acted swiftly initiating firefighting measures to contain the blaze and prevent further damage. The incident occurred during the ongoing 10-day Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam, which attracts thousands of devotees from across the country daily. The temple is already on high alert following a tragic stampede on January 8 that claimed six lives and injured nearly 40 people.

The stampede took place near Bairagi Patteda, close to MGM School in Tirupati as devotees rushed to secure tickets for the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam. Authorities have since intensified safety and crowd management measures to avoid further mishaps during the festival. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire, and the temple administration has assured devotees that safety remains their top priority.