Accident / Two Teens Drown during Ganesh Idol Immersion in Ganjam

Ganjam, Sep 16: A tragic incident during Ganesh idol immersion has claimed the lives of two students and left two others injured, casting a pall of grief over the region.

The accident occurred on Wednesday morning at the Ghoda river near Hinjilikatu. Students from Gayatri Nagar First Lane had gathered to immerse the idol after Ganesh Puja celebrations. While performing the ritual, four students were swept away by the strong river current.

Local residents and fellow students immediately alerted the Fire Services Department. Rescue teams managed to pull out two students alive and rushed them to the hospital. However, two others — identified as 14‑year‑olds Pritam Sahil and Adarsh Sahoo of Geeta Mandir Sahi — were declared dead.

Also read: Ganesh Idol Immersion Turns Deadly in Bhadrak

The incident has left the community devastated, especially as it comes just days after another tragedy linked to Ganesh Puja. On September 13, an auto carrying idols overturned near Jamuni, killing 21‑year‑old Badal Muni and injuring more than three others.

Residents say the back‑to‑back mishaps have cast a shadow over the festive spirit in Hinjilikatu. “We were celebrating Ganesh Puja with joy, but now the entire area is mourning,” said a local villager.

Authorities have urged caution during idol immersion ceremonies, particularly near rivers with strong currents. The Fire Services Department has also stressed the importance of community vigilance and safety measures to prevent further accidents.