Puri, July 16 -- Multiple people were evacuated by emergency rescue teams on stretchers on Thursday as an overwhelming surge of pilgrims gathered at the Singhadwara of the Puri Jagannath Temple for the annual Rath Yatra.

Security personnel and emergency rescue teams quickly intervened to assist those affected by the dense crowding, administering medical attention as the massive influx of people continued to grow around the sacred chariots.

Meanwhile, the holy town of Puri is witnessing immense spiritual fervour on Thursday as the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath begins.

Lakhs of devotees have gathered along the Grand Road (Badadanda) to witness the grand procession and catch a glimpse of the deities as they embark on their maj...