Agartala - Six individuals have tragically lost their lives, and 15 others have sustained injuries after a Rath (chariot) caught fire upon contact with a high-tension wire in the Unakoti district of Tripura. The incident occurred during the 'Ulta Rath Yatra' festival of Lord Jagannath in the Kumarghat area at around 4:30 pm on Wednesday, according to the police.

The 'Ulta Rath Yatra' festival marks the return of the sibling deities, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhdara, and Lord Jagannath, to their abode one week after the Rath Yatra. Thousands of people were involved in pulling the iron Rath when it accidentally came into contact with a 133 kv overhead cable, resulting in the unfortunate incident.

Assistant Inspector General (Law & Order) Jyotishman Das Chowdhury confirmed that six individuals lost their lives immediately, and the injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their conditions were reported to be critical.

Chief Minister Manik Saha expressed his condolences for the loss of lives in the tragic accident. He acknowledged the electrocution incident during the 'Ulta Rath' procession in Kumarghat and extended his deepest sympathies to the bereaved families. He also wished a speedy recovery to the injured individuals, assuring them that the state government stands with them during this challenging time.