Madhya Pradesh boat tragedy: 4 dead, 10 missing after boat overturns in Jabalpur

Pic/PTI

Four persons died and 15 others were rescued after a tourist cruise boat carrying 29 passengers overturned in the Bargi dam reservoir following a sudden storm in Jabalpur district on Thursday, an official said, reported PTI.

Several Still Missing, Rescue Operation Intensifies

Ten tourists remain missing, and a large-scale search and rescue operation is underway. Authorities said all 29 passengers had valid tickets for the cruise, reported PTI.

Bargi Dam Located on Narmada River

The Bargi Dam has been constructed on the Narmada River in Jabalpur district.

SDRF, Officials Lead Search Efforts

Rescue operations are being carried out on a war footing, with the district collector, Superintendent of Police, and teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed at the site.

CM Mohan Yadav Monitors Situation

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said local authorities and rescue personnel were continuing efforts following the tragic incident caused by severe weather, reported PTI.

Ministers Directed to Oversee Rescue Work

Public Works Minister Rakesh Singh and Tourism Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, along with senior officials, were directed to reach the site and supervise the rescue operations, reported PTI.

Compensation Announced for Victims' Families

The Chief Minister announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased, reported PTI.

Rakesh Singh, who reached the spot, said the incident occurred around 6-6:15 pm and confirmed that the boat has since been stabilised. A detailed probe will be conducted after the rescue operation concludes, reported PTI.

Darkness Hampers Ongoing Search

Authorities said the priority remains locating the missing passengers, though the operation has become challenging due to darkness.

Eyewitnesses Describe Panic on Board

According to eyewitnesses, strong winds made the water choppy, prompting passengers to raise alarm and urge the crew to return to shore, reported PTI.

However, the crew reportedly could not hear the warnings, and the boat drifted further before overturning.

Locals Help Rescue Survivors

Some local residents assisted in rescuing passengers wearing life jackets by using ropes, helping save several lives, reported PTI.

Opposition Expresses Grief, Seeks Support for Victims

Congress MLA and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar termed the incident tragic and expressed condolences to the victims' families, reported PTI.

He also urged the state government to provide adequate compensation and full support to those affected.

(With inputs from PTI)