BHOPAL, India, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- At least 115 pilgrims were killed and another 100 were injured during a stampede on a narrow bridge in India's central Madhya Pradesh state, officials said.
The stampede Sunday was triggered by rumors that the bridge, which leads to the historic Ratangarh temple, was going to collapses, The Times of India reported.
While most pilgrims were trampled in the stampede, some drowned after falling or jumping into the river below.
"We have counted 100 bodies so far. Several pilgrims died on way to hospital. The toll may rise manifold," said a senior police officer.
Witnesses said police aggravated the situation by charging at the pilgrims with batons.
"Police lathicharge [baton charge] worsened the crisis, forcing many to jump off the bridge," said Manoj Sharma, 28.
A team of 20 doctors have been sent to the area to treat the wounded.
