Tragedy Strikes as Boat Capsizes in Vadodara: 16 Dead, 10 Rescued

A tragic incident unfolded in Gujarat‘s Vadodara city as a school picnic turned fatal when a boat capsized in Harni lake, resulting in the loss of 16 lives. Among the victims were 14 students and two teachers who were on a picnic, enjoying a boat ride in the picturesque lake. The accident occurred in the afternoon while the group of two dozen students and four teachers were on their outing. As the tragic event unfolded, rescue operations were launched to find the missing individuals.

An official from Harni Police Station informed, “As of now, 14 children and two teachers have lost their lives in this tragedy. One student who was rescued is currently undergoing treatment at SSG Hospital.”

The Prime Minister's office expressed distress over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh to the families of the deceased from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Additionally, each injured individual would receive ₹50,000.

The incident occurred at Harni Motnath Lake, where students from New Sunrise School had embarked on their picnic. A case has been registered, and the post-mortem of the bodies is underway, as stated by Leela Patil, DCP Vadodara. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, accompanied by Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, visited the injured individuals admitted to SSG Hospital.

The tragic incident drew attention from various political figures, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressing his grief and urging the Gujarat government to expedite relief and rescue operations. President Draupadi Murmu also conveyed her condolences and hoped for the success of the ongoing rescue effort.

Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel handed over the responsibility of conducting a high-level probe into the Vadodara boat capsize incident to Vadodara District Magistrate. A detailed report is expected to be submitted to the state government within 10 days. The Gujarat government has also announced a compensation of ₹4 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased individual and ₹50,000 for the injured.

The tragedy at Harni Motnath Lake has shocked the nation, and the search and rescue operation is still underway. The authorities will file a missing report on Friday morning after completing their search.

As the investigation unfolds, questions arise regarding the boat’s capacity and safety measures. Dr. Sheetal Mistry, Chairman of the Standing Committee, Vadodara Municipal Corporation, highlighted that the boat was carrying more individuals than its capacity and lacked safety measures. Stringent action will be taken against any lapses discovered.

The devastating incident has sent shockwaves through the city, leaving parents heartbroken. One parent mourning the loss of their daughter expressed the need for accountability, while another parent shared relief in their son’s rescue from the capsized boat.

With the investigation ongoing and the immense loss weighing heavily on the community, the nation stands in solidarity with the bereaved families.