Sonia Gandhi expresses shock over stampede at Pushkaralu ghat, Andhra Pradesh

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday expressed her shock over the tragedy that occurred due to a stampede at the Pushkaralu ghat in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh.

The official twitter account of the Congress party shared her message via a series of tweets.

"Smt.Sonia Gandhi has expressed shock at unfortunate incident of lives being lost in a stampede at Godavari Maha Pushkaram in Andhra Pradesh."

"Extending her condolences to the families of the deceased in the tragedy, she hoped that the injured are being provided immediate (contd).."

"(contd) medical treatment & relief.Smt. Gandhi also said that the Govt should take adequate steps to ensure that such incidents do not recur"

At least 16 people have died and around 25 injured in the Pushkaralu ghat stampede. The tragedy took place during the 'Maha Pushkaralu' festival.

Officials fear that the death toll is likely to rise as some of the injured are in a serious condition.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has instructed the officials to monitor the relief work. As per reports, Naidu is reviewing the situation from the control room set up at the venue.

Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives in the tragedy.