The death toll in the cruise boat capsize at Jabalpur's Bargi Dam rose to six on Friday, officials said, as a video capturing the moment the vessel overturned during a sudden storm surfaced online.
Video Evidence Emerges
The footage shows the boat struggling against strong winds before losing balance and capsizing in turbulent waters. The cruise boat, operated by the Madhya Pradesh tourism department, capsized on Thursday evening in a reservoir at Bargi Dam on the Narmada river, leaving several people missing even as 22 were rescued.
Details of the Incident
Officials said the vessel was carrying around 43 people, including the captain and two crew members, when it was caught in a sudden storm triggered by an abrupt weather change. The high-velocity winds caused the boat to lose control and overturn in the reservoir. Meteorological data indicated that wind speeds surged to 60-70 kmph around 6 pm, creating rough conditions in the water. Officials believe these strong winds destabilised the vessel, leading to the accident.
Captain Madan Patel was among those rescued with the help of life jackets, and another passenger was saved later. However, the two other crew members remain missing. Survivors alleged that life jackets were distributed only after the boat began to sink, leaving little time to use them amid the panic.
Government Response
The state government has ordered an inquiry into the incident and announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased.
Eyewitness Accounts and Concerns
Tourists and eyewitnesses claimed that there were no life jackets, low railings, and children were moving freely on the boat. They alleged that basic norms were ignored despite past warnings. A similar incident occurred in Bhopal's Upper Lake in 2022, and reforms promised earlier have seen poor follow-up and audits. Survivors and families are demanding accountability, highlighting systemic lapses in tourist boat operations.
The TOI City Desk is an indefatigable team of journalists dedicated to bringing you the pulse of cities from across the nation, all day and all night. Our mission is to curate, report, and deliver city news that matters to readers of The Times of India. With a keen focus on urban life, governance, culture, and local issues, we provide a comprehensive view of the ever-evolving cityscapes. Our team works tirelessly to keep readers informed about the latest developments, ensuring that they are connected to the heartbeat of cities across India, right when it happens. The TOI City Desk is a trusted source for staying in touch with the local stories that shape your world.
