At least four individuals have lost their lives, and over a dozen are unaccounted for following the capsizing of a tourist cruise boat carrying around 30–35 passengers near Khamariya Island in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur district. The tragic incident occurred during a severe storm with strong winds that caused the boat to overturn in the Narmada River’s backwaters, throwing passengers into the water.
Rescue operations are underway with police, local administration teams, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) working diligently despite challenging weather conditions and fading light. So far, four bodies have been recovered, and around 15 individuals have been rescued, but approximately 18 people are still missing.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos as sudden dark clouds and high-velocity winds led to the boat’s capsizing. The authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, including the possibility of overcrowding on the vessel. The Bargi Dam, a popular water tourism destination, attracts visitors for evening boat rides.
Public Works Department Minister Rakesh Singh has taken immediate action, coordinating rescue efforts and ensuring necessary measures are in place. Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has urged swift rescue operations and accountability in the wake of this tragic incident.
