Mathura Boat Tragedy: Death Toll Reaches 15 as Search Continues
Update on Mathura Boat Accident
Photo: IANS
Mathura, April 13: The tragic boat accident in Mathura has claimed 15 lives, with rescue teams recovering two additional bodies from the Yamuna River, as reported by officials on Monday.
Among the deceased is Yash Bhalla, also known as Yuvraj, hailing from Punjab. The second victim has been identified as Monica.
Yash Bhalla's remains were discovered along the riverbank near Devraha Baba Ghat, close to Keshi Ghat, and were reported to be in a severely damaged state upon recovery.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team conducted the retrieval as part of the ongoing search efforts. The police have taken possession of the bodies for post-mortem examinations.
Search operations are still in progress to locate one remaining missing individual, with authorities utilizing drones to assist in the efforts.
Members of the Army's Strike One Corps, along with NDRF personnel, are actively involved in the extensive search and recovery operations in the vicinity.
The incident transpired on April 10 in Vrindavan when a boat carrying tourists, primarily from Punjab, capsized in the Yamuna River.
Officials indicated that the passengers were part of a larger group of approximately 150 pilgrims from Ludhiana and Muktsar districts who had traveled to Vrindavan.
The accident occurred near Keshi Ghat when the boat, which was carrying over two dozen individuals, drifted into deeper waters and collided with an object in the river.
Authorities noted that a pontoon bridge in the area had been recently removed due to rising water levels, leaving floating pontoon drums behind. It is believed that the boat may have struck one of these drums.