Tragic Boat Capsize in Bihar Claims Lives of 13, Including Children

A tragic boating accident in Bihar's Ganga River has resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, including eight children. As rescue teams continue their search for the missing, local leaders express their condolences and call for accountability. The incident has raised questions about the safety of nighttime boating operations. With the Chief Minister announcing compensation for the victims' families, the community grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event. Read on for more details about the ongoing rescue efforts and the investigation into this tragedy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 14, 2026, 11:56 IST

Devastating Incident in Vaishali District

File image shows the rescue personnel navigating boats during a search operation following a boating tragedy in Bihar (Photo: IANS)

Patna, Oct 14: A tragic boating accident in the Ganga River, located in Vaishali district, has resulted in the loss of 13 lives, including eight children. Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav and other leaders from the NDA have expressed their condolences as rescue teams continue to search for those still missing.

Minister Yadav urged the Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, to visit Raghopur, his constituency, to offer condolences to the grieving families. He stated, “Raghopur is where the Leader of the Opposition serves. This incident is heartbreaking, and he should be there to support the affected families, as he represents them. I believe he is currently away but will return shortly.”

BJP state president Sanjay Saraogi labeled the incident as tragic, announcing that the government would provide relief to the bereaved families. He also mentioned that an investigation would be initiated to determine why the boat was operating at night, promising accountability for those responsible.

“This is a devastating event that has claimed the lives of many, including innocent children. The BJP extends its condolences. The Prime Minister, BJP National President, and Chief Minister have also expressed their sorrow. Relief measures have been announced, and an inquiry will be conducted regarding the nighttime operation of the boat. Those accountable will face consequences,” Saraogi remarked.

JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan described the incident as heartbreaking and expressed deep sympathy for the families affected. He noted that Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has decided to provide an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased, along with compensation for the injured. However, he acknowledged that no amount of money could alleviate the pain of those who have lost their children.

The boat capsized near Rampur Shyamchand village under the jurisdiction of Raghopur police station on Tuesday, with passengers reportedly en route to a feast.

Initial reports suggest that between 15 and 20 individuals were on board when the boat overturned. Several others sustained injuries, but the exact number of passengers and the final death toll are still pending official confirmation.

Rescue operations continued on Wednesday, with SDRF teams deploying six boats to search the river. Local residents also participated, using ropes tied to wooden logs and bamboo poles to recover bodies.

The damaged boat, which had been temporarily repaired with plastic sheets, has been located.

This incident has caused widespread panic in the area, prompting both local residents and authorities to initiate rescue efforts. An investigation is anticipated to explore the circumstances surrounding the accident, particularly the reasons for the boat's nighttime operation.