Jabalpur Accident: A tragic cruise boat accident at Bargi Dam in Jabalpur has claimed the lives of nine people, while 28 passengers have been rescued safely.
Rescue operations are still underway. Both the central and state governments have announced compensation for the victims’ families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav have expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
Death Toll Rises, Several Still Missing
The number of fatalities rose to nine after three more bodies were recovered on Friday. According to officials, 28 people have been rescued, while six individuals are still missing. A total of 43 passengers were onboard the cruise at the time of the accident.
Storm Triggers the Tragedy
Authorities reported that the accident occurred on Thursday evening when a sudden storm caused strong winds and high waves in the dam, which is built on the Narmada River. The boat lost balance and eventually capsized.
Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Rescue teams, including the Army, NDRF, and SDRF, have been conducting search operations throughout the night.
Public Works Department Minister Rakesh Singh stated that a hydraulic crane is being used to retrieve the submerged cruise boat.
Eyewitness Accounts Reveal Panic
Eyewitnesses reported that strong winds created large waves, prompting passengers to request the crew to return to shore.
However, due to the noise, the crew could not hear them. The boat drifted and eventually overturned. Local residents played a crucial role in rescuing some passengers using ropes.
Government Announces Compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
The state government has also announced ₹4 lakh compensation for each deceased victim’s family.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav assured full support and directed officials to reach the site immediately.
Heartbreaking Moment During Rescue
A deeply emotional scene unfolded when rescue teams recovered the bodies of a mother and her four-year-old son.
The child was found clinging to his mother, a heartbreaking sight that moved everyone present.
Challenging Conditions Delay Rescue
Minister Rakesh Singh stated that rescue efforts faced severe challenges due to rain, darkness, and deep water. Expert teams have now taken over to speed up the operation.
Multiple Agencies Join Efforts
Teams from NDRF, SDRF, and the Indian Army are actively involved. Additional support, including a special rescue team and helicopter from Hyderabad and a paramilitary team from Kolkata, has also been deployed.
Heavy machinery like cranes, hydraulic cutters, and excavators are being used as the boat is stuck about 20 feet underwater.
Passenger Identification Underway
CSP Bargi Anjul Ayank Mishra confirmed that 41 passengers have been identified, while two remain unidentified. CCTV footage is being used to verify passenger data.