9 Dead in Jabalpur Boat Capsize; Probe Ordered Over Safety Lapses
A tragic boat accident at Bargi Dam in Jabalpur has claimed at least nine lives, leaving the region in shock. The most heartbreaking moment came when rescue teams recovered the bodies of a mother and her four-year-old son, found locked in a final embrace a day after the incident.
The accident occurred on Thursday when a river cruise boat carrying several passengers capsized after being caught in a sudden storm. Authorities confirmed that 28 people have been rescued so far, with at least 17 of them hospitalised. Several others are still reported missing.
Rescue operations are being carried out jointly by the Indian Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), despite challenging weather conditions. Officials said efforts continued overnight using lights and special equipment.
The victims identified include residents from both Delhi and Jabalpur, including elderly individuals and children. On Friday, rescuers recovered additional bodies, taking the death toll to nine.
Survivors have raised serious concerns about safety lapses. Passengers alleged overcrowding on the boat, lack of proper life jackets, and inadequate safety measures. Some claimed that tourists had to distribute life jackets themselves, while children were left unsupervised on a boat with low railings.
Reports also indicate that weather warnings about strong winds had been issued a day before the incident. Despite this, the boat reportedly proceeded with its journey, raising further questions about negligence.
A survivor recounted being stranded in the water for nearly three hours before being rescued, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Mohan Yadav assured full support to the affected families, stating that the government stands with them in this difficult time and that all efforts are being made to locate the missing.
Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi has ordered a detailed investigation into the incident. He stated that strict action would be taken against those found responsible if negligence is established.
Authorities have also begun efforts to retrieve the capsized boat using cranes, as the probe into the tragic incident continues.
