Mathura: At least six people have died and over a dozen are feared missing after a boat carrying devotees capsized in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district on Friday, triggering a massive rescue operation and drawing condolences from Prime Minister Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep anguish over the incident, saying he was “deeply pained” by the mishap. Extending condolences to the bereaved families, he said, “My condolences to those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. The local administration is assisting those affected.”
The Chief Minister termed the incident “extremely tragic and heart-rending” and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families. He said instructions had been issued to concerned authorities to immediately reach the spot, ensure effective rescue efforts, and provide proper medical treatment to the injured.
“I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant peace to the departed souls, give strength to the grieving families to bear this immense loss, and ensure a speedy recovery for the injured,” he said.
The incident occurred in the Yamuna River near the iconic Kesi Ghat in Mathura when a boat carrying devotees capsized on Friday afternoon.
According to District Magistrate CP Singh, the mishap took place around 2:45 p.m. when nearly 30 people from Ludhiana were boating in two boats. One of the boats reportedly sank following a collision with a floating pipa bridge.
“So far, six bodies have been recovered, while around 16–17 people have been rescued alive,” the DM said, describing the accident as “very unfortunate.”
Initial reports indicate that the boat was carrying around 25 pilgrims and locals when it capsized in the river near Kesi Ghat (also known as Shringar Ghat). More than a dozen people are feared missing, prompting an extensive search and rescue operation.
Teams from the local police, district administration, and trained divers have been deployed at the site. Rescue personnel are continuing efforts to trace the missing, even as authorities monitor the situation closely.
The Chief Minister has instructed officials to ensure that all necessary medical assistance is provided to the injured and that relief measures are carried out on priority.
Further details are awaited as the rescue operation continues.
(IANS)
