Argus News - Mathura Boat Tragedy: 10 Dead, 5 Missing as Rescue Ops Continue in Yamuna

Vrindavan, Apr 11: Vrindavan witnessed a tragic accident on Friday afternoon when a boat carrying pilgrims capsized in the Yamuna River near Kesi Ghat.

Despite over 14 hours of relentless search operations by NDRF, SDRF, local police, and divers, several devotees remain missing.

Authorities confirmed that the boat was carrying 37 pilgrims, mostly from Ludhiana, Punjab. Of them, 22 were rescued safely, while 10 have been declared dead.

Five pilgrims — Manik Tandon, Pankaj Malhotra, Rishabh Sharma, Yash Bhalla, and Monika — are still unaccounted for, and their families have rushed to Vrindavan, anxiously awaiting updates.

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Police officials stated that some missing devotees might have reached other locations safely, and efforts are underway to gather information from nearby hospitals, dharamshalas, and shelters. Families, however, expressed frustration, saying they have not received any communication, intensifying their distress.

District authorities confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been sent to their home districts with government assistance. Injured survivors are being treated at nearby hospitals, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Rescue teams emphasized that the next 24 hours are crucial, as clearer information about the missing pilgrims is expected to emerge.

Prime Minister’s Relief Fund has announced ₹2 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

What really happened?

The accident reportedly occurred when the boat struck a bridge near Kesi Ghat. Witnesses claimed that pilgrims had urged the boatman to turn back, but he ignored their pleas and continued forward, leading to the collision and capsizing.

This tragedy has cast a shadow over Vrindavan, a major pilgrimage destination, raising questions about safety measures and regulation of boat services on the Yamuna.