Heavy iron plates being used in an under-construction ceiling structure suddenly collapsed onto devotees seated below during construction work at Gurdwara Shaheed Ganj Sahib, officials said on Sunday.
Nine women were seriously injured in the incident. Two of them later died, while the condition of the others remains critical.
According to officials, a five-storey building with a langar hall and parking facility is currently being constructed inside the Gurdwara Sahib premises under the supervision of Sant Baba Kashmir Singh Ji Bhuri Wale.
A large number of devotees had gathered at the Gurdwara Sahib on Sunday to pay obeisance. To escape the heat and heavy crowds, many devotees were sitting in shaded areas and reciting Gurbani.
During this time, the heavy iron plates suddenly fell on women who were sitting near the construction site and praying. The incident triggered panic and chaos at the spot. Sevadars and devotees immediately began rescue and relief work.
All the injured women were rushed to Sri Guru Ram Das Hospital in Vallah for treatment, where they are currently undergoing medical care. Police teams also reached the spot soon after receiving information about the incident.
Civil Defence in-charge Sukhchain Singh said two women lost their lives in the accident, while seven to eight others were injured and are being treated at different hospitals in Amritsar.
SP Vishaljit Singh, who also reached the site, said all the women suffered injuries, while two to three of them remain in critical condition. They have been admitted to Sri Guru Ram Das Hospital in Vallah for treatment.
“An unfortunate incident took place at Gurdwara Shaheedan during Chaupai Sahib seva today. A shuttering plate from the under-construction parking area fell on women sitting below. Around eight to nine women were injured. With the help of the public and police, they were taken to Guru Ram Das Hospital.
The matter will be investigated. Two to three women are seriously injured. We will also investigate whether there was any negligence,” the SP said.
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