Jabalpur, 02 May (H.S.): A tourist cruise boat capsized in Bargi Dam on the Narmada River amid a sudden storm, resulting in nine fatalities and 28 rescues, as confirmed by multiple eyewitness accounts and official statements.
The incident, which unfolded on Thursday evening near Khamariya Island, has spotlighted glaring safety violations, including the crew's alleged disregard for weather alerts and failure to promptly distribute life jackets.
Safety Lapses Detailed
Survivors recounted scenes of utter pandemonium, with passengers pleading for the vessel to return to shore as winds gusted up to 60 kmph, yet the crew pressed on despite a prior yellow alert.
Newly emerged video footage captures frantic screams and a desperate scramble for sealed life jackets, which crew members unpacked only after water inundated the deck, underscoring critical delays in emergency response.
Reports further indicate the boat carried 31 passengers beyond its rated capacity, exacerbating instability during the cyclone-like conditions.
Official Response and Accountability
In swift retribution, Madhya Pradesh authorities terminated the services of cruise pilot Mahesh Patel, helper Chhotelal Gond, and ticket in-charge Brijendra, while suspending Hotel Maikal Resort manager Sunil Maravi and transferring regional manager Sanjay Malhotra amid a departmental probe.
Jabalpur police have filed charges of culpable homicide against operators, with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav vowing a thorough investigation into the seasonal cyclone trigger and operational oversights.
Rescue efforts by NDRF and SDRF persist, though poor underwater visibility complicates searches for any remaining missing persons.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
