Wall collapse at Simhachalam temple: 8 dead Anamika Gottipati, April 30, 2025May 1, 2025 Tragedy struck the annual Chandanotsavam festival at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, when a wall collapsed in the early hours, killing eight devotees and injuring several others. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. near the Rs 300 ticket queue, adjacent to the shopping complex on the ghat road from the Simhagiri Bus Stand. Heavy overnight rainfall and strong winds are believed to have loosened the soil, causing the wall to give way. Thousands had gathered at the temple for Nijaroopa Darshanam, a rare and sacred viewing of the deity without sandalwood paste. Reports indicate that over 1.5 lakh devotees were present at the time. 📖 Must Read: Babu clarifies why he chose not visit Simhachalam Six bodies were recovered shortly after the collapse, with two more found later during rescue operations led by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). At least 10 people sustained serious injuries, and concerns remain that others may still be trapped under the debris. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He announced ex gratia of Rs 25 lakh for the families of each deceased victim. Monitoring the situation through teleconference, the Chief Minister ordered a high-level probe by a three-member committee. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, posting: “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the collapse of a wall in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.” Despite preparations for an estimated two lakh attendees—including traffic control and increased bus services—the sudden change in weather led to the fatal collapse. The festive spirit of Chandanotsavam is one of the most significant events in Andhra Pradesh’s religious calendar.