In a tragic incident on Sunday, a boat carrying passengers capsized in the Ganga river near Barh sub-division of Patna district. While 13 individuals were fortunate to be rescued, concerns loom as four persons remain missing.

The mishap occurred as the passengers were navigating the river post their ritualistic bathing. Prompt rescue efforts ensued with the aid of local divers, ensuring the safety of the rescued individuals. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been alerted and are actively involved in the operation, alongside the prompt arrival of local administrative personnel.

The unfortunate event took place at Umanath Ghat in Barh, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Ganga Dussehra, attracting a multitude of devotees from distant locales for sacred ablutions. Eyewitnesses recount a chaotic scene as the overloaded boat lost stability, precipitating its overturning midstream, plunging its occupants into the river’s embrace.

Conflicting reports on the exact number of passengers onboard underscore the chaotic nature of the event, with estimates ranging from eyewitness accounts to official figures. Nonetheless, the primary focus remains on the ongoing search and rescue efforts for the missing individuals.

Local sentiments express grievances over the lack of preemptive measures to restrict boat operations on such bustling days, particularly considering overcrowding concerns. The victims, hailing from Nalanda district, were predominantly members of a single family, their outing tragically marred by the unforeseen disaster.

As authorities delve into the incident for further insights, the community remains united in hope, awaiting updates on the fate of the missing individuals amidst the ongoing flood of rescue operations.