Wednesday, January 26 2005 17:46 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Wai (Maharashtra): Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar today (Jan 26, 2005) announced a financial aid of Rs 15 crore for development of Mandhradevi temple in Wai, scene of yesterday's (Jan 25, 2005) stampede that left over 250 dead.

"I have talked to the Prime Minister and he has agreed to provide funds for making the temple safe for devotees," Pawar told reporters in Maharashtra.

Also, those whose shops were gutted would receive the central aid, the Minister, who visited the scene of tragedy, said.

Initial reports indicated that slippery stairs led to the tragedy, he said.