Tragic Boat Capsize in Bihar Claims 13 Lives
A boat capsized in the Ganga River in Vaishali, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals, predominantly children.
Thirteen people confirmed dead after a boat capsized in Vaishali.
Rescue operations are ongoing with several individuals still missing.
Bihar's Chief Minister announced financial aid for the victims' families.
In a heartbreaking incident on Tuesday night, a boat capsized in the Ganga River near Rampur Shyamchand panchayat in Vaishali district, leading to the tragic loss of at least 13 lives. The mishap occurred around 8:30 PM as passengers, mainly children and young men, were en route to a feast at Singheshwar Rai's residence when the small vessel overturned midstream.
Local residents quickly responded to the distress call, initiating rescue efforts to save those who had fallen into the river. Many individuals were successfully retrieved and transported to the primary health center in Raghopur Fatehpur for medical assistance. Authorities, including police and administrative officials, arrived shortly after being notified of the incident. A team from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), along with local divers, commenced operations to locate the missing individuals.
The deceased have been identified as several young children and teenagers, including Pinky Kumari (13), Ankita Kumari (6), and Aryan Kumar (son of Girdhari Rai). The identities of some victims remain unconfirmed, as authorities continue their investigation. Vaishali Superintendent of Police, Shubhank Mishra, reported that five bodies were initially recovered, but the death toll has since risen to 13, with ongoing efforts to find the missing.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed his sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the grieving families. He announced that the state government would provide financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to each family affected by this tragedy. Choudhary emphasized the need for swift action in rescue and relief operations and assured that the injured would receive the best possible care.
The incident has drawn widespread attention, with RJD leader and Raghopur MLA Tejashwi Yadav also voicing his condolences. He highlighted the tragic nature of the event, particularly noting that many of the victims were children. Yadav has called for expedited relief and rescue efforts, urging the administration to prioritize the treatment of those injured in this unfortunate accident.
