 The stampede occurred when some worshippers tried to jump over barriers erected to control the crowd. Photo: Reuter |
Local police confirmed that almost 40 bodies have been transported to a nearby hospital morgue, with the number expected to rise as more victims are brought in. Hospital sources reported that several fatalities were due to strokes or pre-existing conditions such as diabetes.
Authorities are continuing rescue and relief efforts as they investigate the cause of the deadly incident.
