At least seven people were killed and around 25 others injured after a roof section of an under-construction temple hall collapsed in Maharashtra's Parbhani district on Saturday.
The incident occurred during a religious gathering at a Hanuman temple, where a large number of devotees had assembled for worship.
The accident took place at the Yashwadi Hanuman Temple in the Manwath area of Parbhani district at around 3:30pm local time.
According to initial reports, a portion of the under-construction sabha mandap (assembly hall) collapsed near the temple's sanctum, trapping several devotees beneath the debris.
Saturday is considered an important day for Hanuman devotees, resulting in a larger-than-usual crowd at the temple when the structure gave way.
Seven killed, dozens injured
Authorities said at least seven people lost their lives in the collapse, while approximately 25 others sustained injuries.
Several injured devotees were rushed to nearby hospitals, including the District Civil Hospital in Parbhani, where some were reported to be in critical condition.
Officials said the number of casualties could be revised as rescue teams continue assessments.
Emergency responders, police personnel and local volunteers rushed to the scene shortly after the collapse.
Rescue teams worked for hours to remove debris and search for trapped victims. Dozens of people were successfully pulled from the rubble and shifted to medical facilities for treatment.
Authorities said fears that more people remained trapped eased as rescue efforts progressed.
Investigation into cause underway
Preliminary information suggests that a pillar or roof section of the under-construction hall collapsed, leading to the tragedy.
Officials have launched an investigation into the incident, including whether construction standards were followed and why devotees were allowed access to an unfinished section of the temple complex.
The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been determined.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced compensation of ₹500,000 for the families of each deceased victim and assured support for those injured in the incident.
Local administration officials have also pledged a thorough inquiry into the collapse.
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