A Day of Devotion Turns into Disaster
What was supposed to be a peaceful day of worship at the famous Pavagadh Hill Temple in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district turned into a horrifying tragedy when a cargo ropeway cable suddenly snapped on Sunday morning. The shocking accident left six people dead and many others injured, throwing the entire region into grief.
The ropeway, usually a trusted mode of transport for thousands of pilgrims, became a death trap within seconds. As carriers crashed to the ground, the screams of terrified passengers echoed across the hill. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as families tried to contact their loved ones while rescue teams rushed to the site.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to local officials, the cable supporting the cargo section of the ropeway broke without warning. At least two carriers collapsed, leading to the deaths of six individuals instantly. Several others suffered fractures and head injuries.
Rescue workers, along with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, immediately launched operations. Ambulances lined up at the base, ferrying the injured to nearby hospitals. Villagers living around the hill also came forward to help, offering water and first aid to victims.
Videos from the scene quickly went viral on social media, showing dangling carriers swinging dangerously while terrified passengers prayed for safety.
Gujarat Ropeway Tragedy: Six Dead After Cable Snaps Near Pavagadh Hill Temple
A Day of Devotion Turns into Disaster
What was supposed to be a peaceful day of worship at the famous Pavagadh Hill Temple in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district turned into a horrifying tragedy when a cargo ropeway cable suddenly snapped on Sunday morning. The shocking accident left six people dead and many others injured, throwing the entire region into grief.
The ropeway, usually a trusted mode of transport for thousands of pilgrims, became a death trap within seconds. As carriers crashed to the ground, the screams of terrified passengers echoed across the hill. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as families tried to contact their loved ones while rescue teams rushed to the site.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to local officials, the cable supporting the cargo section of the ropeway broke without warning. At least two carriers collapsed, leading to the deaths of six individuals instantly. Several others suffered fractures and head injuries.
Rescue workers, along with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, immediately launched operations. Ambulances lined up at the base, ferrying the injured to nearby hospitals. Villagers living around the hill also came forward to help, offering water and first aid to victims.
Videos from the scene quickly went viral on social media, showing dangling carriers swinging dangerously while terrified passengers prayed for safety.
Safety Concerns Under Scrutiny
This tragedy has put the spotlight firmly on ropeway safety in India. The Pavagadh ropeway is a popular pilgrimage route, carrying thousands of visitors daily to the centuries-old temple atop the hill. While officials claim regular inspections are carried out, locals allege that maintenance has been neglected.
One witness said, “The ropeway often stopped midway, but no one thought it could lead to such a disaster. Authorities ignored repeated complaints about the poor condition of the cables.”
Experts have pointed out that ropeways, especially older systems, require rigorous monthly safety checks. A lapse of even a few weeks can prove fatal. After today’s incident, public trust in ropeway services is expected to decline sharply unless immediate reforms are made
Political Reactions and Public Anger
The accident has sparked widespread anger across Gujarat. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed condolences to the victims’ families and announced compensation for those affected. He has also ordered a high-level inquiry into the cable failure.
Opposition leaders, however, have accused the state government of negligence. Social media is filled with posts demanding accountability, with hashtags like #PavagadhTragedy and #RopewaySafety trending nationwide.
Many users drew parallels to past accidents involving amusement rides and transport systems, calling for India to overhaul its safety regulations.
Pilgrims in Shock
For many devotees, the ropeway was part of a spiritual journey. Families had traveled from different parts of Gujarat and neighboring states to visit the revered temple. Instead, they now find themselves mourning loved ones.
A tearful survivor said, “We came here to seek blessings, but what we saw was death. I will never forget the screams and the fall.”
Psychologists say such traumatic incidents can leave lasting scars, not only for survivors but also for eyewitnesses and families who narrowly escaped.
What Happens Next?
Authorities have temporarily suspended ropeway operations in Pavagadh until further notice. Engineers are examining the cables, machinery, and maintenance records. If negligence is proven, criminal cases may be filed against the operators.
Meanwhile, experts suggest that India should adopt global safety standards for ropeways, including:
Automated monitoring of cable tension
Mandatory monthly audits by independent engineers
Emergency evacuation drills for passengers
Unless such measures are taken, incidents like today’s could repeat in other parts of the country where ropeways are a lifeline for pilgrims and tourists.
A Nation in Mourning
As the sun set over Panchmahal district, the mood was somber. Families prepared for funerals, leaders visited hospitals, and rescue teams continued their work. What should have been a day of devotion turned into a day of despair.
This tragedy serves as a painful reminder that infrastructure built for convenience must never compromise on safety. While compensation may bring temporary relief, only strict accountability and reform can ensure that no more families suffer such a heartbreaking loss.
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