Mathura/Chandigarh, April 10: A pilgrimage to Vrindavan ended in disaster on Friday when a boat carrying residents from Jagraon city overturned in the Yamuna River, killing six. The tragedy took place near Shringar Ghat in Mathura after the boat lost control in heavy currents and crashed into a pontoon bridge.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared that the state is working in tandem with Uttar Pradesh authorities to coordinate relief and rescue activities. Mann asserted that the devotees were in the region for darshan when the mishap occurred. He affirmed that the government is dedicated to providing every possible assistance and stated that more information would be released as the situation develops.
Local emergency services and the NDRF were deployed to the Yamuna shortly after the vessel, which was carrying more than 30 passengers, capsized around 3 p.m. Officials asserted that while six bodies have been recovered, the search for missing individuals continues. Approximately 15 survivors were pulled from the water and are receiving medical attention.
Administrative officials noted that the strong river currents played a significant role in the collision. Chief Minister Mann said that his thoughts are with the families in Jagraon and maintained that the Punjab government will ensure the victims are brought home and the survivors receive proper care.
The incident drew immediate reactions from national leadership, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating his condolences for the bereaved families. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath affirmed that he has ordered local police and divers to prioritize the search for those still unaccounted for.
