Rath Yatra stampede report blames police negligence, failed AI system
A recent investigation into the Puri Rath Yatra stampede found that both police negligence and a failed AI surveillance system played major roles in the tragedy near Gundicha temple, which left three people dead and over 20 injured.
The report points out that senior officers weren't present when it mattered most, contributing to the failure to manage the swelling crowd.
Disciplinary action recommended against officers
Only 123 out of 275 security cameras were working, many were badly placed, and drone protocols weren't followed—so the tech meant to help just didn't.
Officers even let a loaded truck into the crowded area, triggering chaos.
The report recommends disciplinary action against those responsible and calls for a complete rethink of how big events like this are managed in the future.