Tragedy struck the holy city of Patna on Sunday as two men lost their lives in a drowning incident in the Ganga river. The unfortunate event occurred while the victims were taking a ritual bath on the auspicious occasion of Maghi Purnima at the popular Digha Ghat.
Details of the Drowning Incident
The victims have been identified as Guard Babu, aged 50, and Dhananjay Kumar, aged 30. Both were residents of the Chakan police station area in Gaya district, who had traveled to Patna for the religious festivities. According to official reports, they were bathing in the river when they got into difficulty and drowned.
Rescue Attempt by Brave Constable
In a heroic but ultimately unsuccessful effort, traffic constable Tara Kumari immediately jumped into the river upon witnessing the distress. Despite her courageous attempt to save the two men, she was unable to rescue them from the strong currents. Digha Station House Officer Sanjeev Kumar confirmed the details of the incident and the failed rescue operation.
Maghi Purnima Significance and Safety Concerns
Maghi Purnima is an important Hindu festival where devotees traditionally take holy dips in rivers like the Ganga. While such rituals hold deep religious significance, this incident highlights ongoing safety concerns at river ghats during peak festival times. Authorities often face challenges in managing large crowds and ensuring water safety during these events.
Community Impact and Official Response
The drowning has sent shockwaves through the local community in Patna and the victims' hometown in Gaya. Such incidents during religious gatherings raise questions about safety measures, crowd management, and emergency response protocols at popular bathing ghats. Local police and administration officials are likely to review safety arrangements at Digha Ghat and other riverfront locations in the city.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the dangers associated with river bathing, even during spiritually significant occasions. It underscores the need for enhanced safety measures, public awareness campaigns about water safety, and improved emergency response capabilities at religious gathering spots along riverbanks.
