Gujarat Boat Mishap: A festive school picnic at Harni Lake in Gujarat’s Vadodara took a devastating turn on Thursday when a boat carrying over 20 children and several adults capsized, resulting in the tragic loss of 14 lives. The victims include 12 schoolchildren and two teachers, casting a pall over what was meant to be a day of joy.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, along with top officials, rushed to Vadodara, where a dedicated rescue team, including the National Disaster Response Force officials and the Vadodara municipal corporation’s fire brigade, worked tirelessly into the night to locate missing individuals in the sludgy lake.
The circumstances leading to the mishap remain unclear, raising questions about safety measures such as life jacket usage and the boat’s capacity to carry nearly 30 people. Chief Minister Patel has ordered a thorough inquiry, with a report expected within 10 days to determine the causes and any potential negligence.
Expressing deep concern, Patel directed strict measures against those found responsible for the tragedy. He announced compensation of ₹4 lakh for each deceased and ₹50,000 as assistance for the injured. The Prime Minister’s Office also pledged ₹2 lakh in assistance for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
In a statement, the PMO expressed distress over the boat capsizing and extended condolences to the bereaved families. It highlighted the local administration’s efforts in providing assistance and announced financial support from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).
As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, the incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols during recreational activities, particularly involving children. The aftermath prompts not just grief but a collective call for heightened vigilance and accountability to prevent such tragedies in the future.
