Tragedy Strikes as Boat Capsizes in Vadodara, Claiming 16 Lives

In a tragic incident on the outskirts of Vadodara city in Gujarat, 14 students and two teachers lost their lives when a boat capsized in Harni Lake. The group of 27 students and teachers were on a picnic when the boat overturned. The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, has arrived at the site of the incident to assess the situation. The Prime Minister’s office has announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh to the families of the deceased.

Rescue operations were immediately initiated by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the fire brigade. Chief Fire Officer Parth Brahmbhatt confirmed that all students have been accounted for. The boat, which was overcrowded, had loaded beyond its capacity. Local residents also played a role in rescuing some children before the official rescue teams arrived.

Gujarat’s Education Minister, Kuber Dindor, informed that the NDRF and fire brigade personnel are continuing the search operation to ensure there are no missing individuals. The rescued students have been taken to various hospitals for medical attention. Ranjanben Dhananjay Bhatt, Member of Parliament from Vadodara, has assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the mishap.

This tragic incident has left the entire community in shock. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and is closely monitoring the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also extended his sympathies and announced an additional ex gratia of ₹50,000 for the injured individuals.