In a devastating incident on September 8, 2025, the boundary wall of the Shri Lakshmi Devi Temple in Agra's Balkeshwar area collapsed into the swollen Yamuna River, leading to the tragic loss of lives. The incident occurred around 6:30 PM when a section of the wall, along with part of the roof, gave way, sending several devotees plunging into the fast-flowing river.
Eyewitnesses reported that at least 25 people were sitting on the wall at the time of the collapse. However, authorities have confirmed that only 4 to 5 individuals sustained injuries and were rescued and hospitalized promptly. Despite initial fears of a higher casualty count, no additional fatalities have been reported as of now.
Rescue Operations and Official Response
Upon receiving distress calls, local authorities, including District Magistrate Arvind Bangaru Malappa and DCP City Sonam Kumar, swiftly mobilized rescue teams. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and over 400 personnel were deployed to search the riverbanks and submerged areas for any missing persons. Divers were also dispatched to assist in the operation.
The incident has prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to review safety measures at religious sites situated near water bodies, especially during the monsoon season when river levels are elevated.
Community and Administrative Reactions
Local residents and temple authorities expressed shock and grief over the incident. Guddi Devi, a caretaker at the temple, mentioned that the area had been crowded with devotees observing the rising Yamuna waters, which had breached the danger mark due to recent heavy rains in the region.
In response to the tragedy, MLA Purushottam Khandelwal and Mayor Hemlata Diwakar Kushwaha visited the site to oversee the ongoing relief efforts and to console the affected families.
Broader Impact of Rising Yamuna Waters
The incident highlights the increasing risks posed by rising river levels in Agra. On September 7, 2025, the Yamuna River breached the danger mark, leading to flooding in several low-lying areas and raising alarms about the safety of residents and heritage sites, including the Taj Mahal