Tragedy Strikes as Boat Capsizes in Mathura
A devastating incident unfolded in Mathura when a boat carrying pilgrims capsized in the Yamuna River, resulting in the loss of 10 lives. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has successfully retrieved the vessel, but search operations continue for five individuals still unaccounted for. Meanwhile, the injured are receiving medical care in local hospitals in Vrindavan.
10 Confirmed Dead, Search for Missing Continues
On Friday, the NDRF teams managed to recover the capsized boat near Keshi Ghat in Mathura after a rigorous four-hour operation. Tragically, officials have confirmed that the incident has claimed the lives of 10 individuals. Mathura’s Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Shailesh Kumar Pandey stated, “The boat has been retrieved after a continuous effort. The death toll stands at 10, and post-mortem examinations are nearly complete, allowing us to return the bodies to their families.”
Agra Divisional Commissioner Nagendra Pratap added that rescue efforts are ongoing, with five individuals still missing. He noted, “The injured are currently being treated in hospitals in Vrindavan. We are committed to locating the missing persons.” The local administration is working diligently to manage the aftermath of this tragic event.
Pilgrims Affected, Families in Mourning
The incident has deeply affected many families, particularly those from Haryana and Punjab who were on a pilgrimage. Uttar Pradesh Minister Lakshmi Narayan Chaudhary described the situation as unfortunate, attributing the capsizing to a sudden storm. “This is a tragic incident. Pilgrims from Haryana and Punjab drowned after the storm capsized their boat. We have rescued 21 individuals who are now receiving free medical treatment,” he stated. The deceased include five men and five women, whose post-mortem procedures are currently underway.
In the wake of the tragedy, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Kulwant Sidhu visited the families of the victims to offer his condolences. He expressed his sorrow, stating, “I extend my deepest sympathies to the grieving families. Some individuals are still missing.” Family members of the victims shared their heart-wrenching stories, recounting how their loved ones had traveled to Mathura and Vrindavan for a spiritual journey before the disaster struck. One relative recalled, “I spoke with my family member shortly after they arrived, and they were excited. Then we received the devastating news that their boat had capsized.”
Collision with Pontoon Bridge
The tragic accident occurred when the boat, carrying approximately 25 to 27 passengers, collided with a pontoon bridge on the Yamuna River near Keshi Ghat. This collision led to the capsizing of the vessel, resulting in the tragic loss of life and injuries among the pilgrims.
MPA continues to extend its support to the US Coast Guard and local authorities
Leaders Express Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the victims’ families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured. He stated, “I am deeply pained by the mishap in Mathura. My thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, and I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the event as “extremely tragic and heart-rending.” He assured that officials have been instructed to provide immediate assistance and proper medical care for the injured. “My condolences go out to the bereaved families. I pray for the departed souls and for the strength of the grieving families during this difficult time,” he added.
