Darbhanga (Bihar): A Muharram procession in Bihar’s Darbhanga district turned tragic on Saturday after a ceremonial Tazia came into contact with a high-tension electricity wire, resulting in one death and injuries to more than 50 people. The incident occurred in Kakorwa village under the jurisdiction of Sakatpur Police Station.
According to officials, a group of people carrying a Tazia were participating in the procession when its top portion touched overhead live wires. The resulting electric shock caused several people to collapse on the spot. One person died immediately, while at least 50 others suffered injuries, 12 of whom are in critical condition. Panic gripped the area following the accident.
दरभंगा में मुहर्रम के जुलूस के दौरान बड़ा हादसा, हाईटेंशन तार की चपेट में ताजिया के आ जाने से क़रीब 50 लोग झुलसे, 1 की मौत, दर्जनभर की हालत गंभीर।#Bihar #Moharram #Darbhanga pic.twitter.com/QGagAJUxcP
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Police and rescue teams reached the site promptly and shifted the injured to nearby hospitals. The deceased was sent for postmortem. Authorities fear the death toll could rise, given the severity of injuries in some cases.
District Collector and Superintendent of Police expressed shock over the incident and have ordered a full-scale inquiry into the cause. They extended condolences to the bereaved family and assured government support to all affected. Officials were directed to conduct awareness campaigns on safety precautions during religious processions, and the electricity department has been instructed to remain alert about overhead line hazards during public gatherings.