Patna: A boat carrying 40 people capsized in river Ganga in Patna, killing at least 20 people as rescue operations is underway, news agency ANI reported on Saturday. The incident took place around 6 pm, when it had turned dark.
The boat, according to some eyewitnesses, was overcrowded and was returning from a kite flying festival on occasion of ‘Makar Sankranti’ in the late evening. Six of the eight people rescued were pulled out of the river by the National Disaster Response Force.
A few on the ill-fated boat swam to safety, while some families said their fellow members had gone missing after the accident. Search operation is being carried out for the missing persons. According to district officials, the bodies of 19 passengers have been recovered, while eight people are being treated at the Patna Medical College and Hospital.
Meanwhile, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has ordered a probe into the incident. A compensation of Rs. 400,000 will be given to the kin of the deceased persons.
Reflecting on the tragedy, BJP leader Prem Kumar said no proper arrangements were in place and blamed the state government for the mishap. “There were no proper arrangements, state Govt is responsible for this, serious lapse,” Kumar was quoted as saying by ANI.
In view of the tragedy, ‘Dahi-Chura’ feast of Makarsankranti tomorrow has been cancelled by JD(U).
source: Indian Express