What Went Wrong? Investigation Launched After Boat Capsize Involving Sourav Ganguly's Family

Investigation into Boat Capsize Incident

Puri: The local administration in Puri has announced an investigation into a recent boat capsizing incident that nearly involved Sourav Ganguly's brother and sister-in-law. The inquiry revealed that the private company responsible for the water sports was operating in an area deemed unsuitable due to high tide conditions.

District Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain stated, "The agency had received authorization to conduct water sports, but our investigation found it was functioning outside its designated area."

Following the incident on Saturday evening at Puri beach, where Snehasish Ganguly, president of the Cricket Association of Bengal, and his wife Arpita narrowly escaped danger, the district collector ordered a thorough inquiry.

Swain indicated that the administration would recommend revoking the agency's permission to conduct water sports activities on the beach.

"Should there be any evidence of criminal negligence or if the agency knowingly endangered lives, we will pursue legal action as per regulations," he added.

The matter will also be discussed in the upcoming Sea Beach Management Committee meeting.

The investigation uncovered that the private agency misrepresented itself as a government-endorsed entity, prompting appropriate actions.

In response to the situation, the administration has demolished the agency's office and two ticket counters located near the beach.

The Odisha Coastal Zone Management Authority had authorized Sky Drive Adventure & Water Sports to conduct activities near the Mangala River Mouth on January 19, 2023. However, the agency was found operating at Light House Beach, a high tide zone, according to officials.

The agency was permitted to offer various activities, including para motoring, jeep parasailing, jet skiing, speed boating, banana boat rides, disco rides, sofa rides, and bumper rides.