Six people lost their lives on Saturday after a cargo ropeway trolley malfunctioned and crashed at the historic Pavagadh Hill temple, a renowned Shakti Peeth in Gujarat’s Panchmahal district. The accident occurred when a trolley, used for transporting construction materials, experienced a wire failure and fell while descending near Tower Number 1.

Panchmahal Superintendent of Police, Dr Harsh Dudhaat, confirmed the casualties, stating police and fire brigade teams were immediately dispatched for rescue and relief operations. The victims included two lift operators, two labourers, and two other individuals accompanying the trolley. All bodies have been recovered and sent for post-mortem.

The main passenger ropeway, which transports pilgrims to the Goddess Kali temple, was closed to the public earlier due to adverse weather conditions. Authorities have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the tragedy, assessing potential negligence or equipment failure. The state government is expected to review safety protocols for ropeway operations at the temple, which attracts approximately 2.5 million visitors annually. Rescue efforts continued through the evening.