Panchmahal, June 19 (IANS) At least two pilgrims were killed and several others injured after rocks collapsed onto a stairway at the Pavagadh pilgrimage site in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district early on Friday morning amid heavy rainfall.

According to sources, the incident occurred between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. near Patiya Bridge on Pavagadh Hill, where devotees were making their way to the hilltop shrine.

Continuous rainfall in the area is believed to have loosened rocks on the hillside, causing them to fall onto the steps used by pilgrims.

Initial reports indicated that several people had been trapped under the debris after the rocks rolled down the slope. Rescue teams, including personnel from the ropeway service and local authorities, were rushed to the site and launched an operation to evacuate those affected.

A source familiar with the rescue efforts said, “The incident occurred between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. Two people died, and the injured were shifted to a nearby hospital. No one is trapped at present.” The disaster created panic in the area.

The rescue operation was later completed, with sources confirming that a total of 10 people had been caught in the incident. Two people died, while eight others sustained injuries and were taken to Halol Referral Hospital for treatment.

Sources said the two deceased were residents of Kheda district. The identities of the victims had not been officially released at the time of reporting.

Police personnel from Pavagadh reached the scene shortly after the incident and assisted in rescue and relief operations. Authorities have begun an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the rockfall.

Heavy rainfall continued in the region during the rescue operation, posing challenges for emergency responders.

Officials have urged visitors and pilgrims to exercise caution while travelling in hilly areas during the monsoon season.

More details were awaited.

–IANS

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