Bihar Boat Tragedy: 14 Dead as Boat Capsizes in Ganga, Most Victims Reportedly Children

Patna: A major tragedy struck Bihar’s Hajipur region on Tuesday evening after a boat carrying more than 20 people capsized in the Ganga River, leaving at least 14 people dead. Six people were admitted to hospital, while three others were rescued safely, according to reports. Most of the deceased are reportedly children.

The incident occurred near Rampur Shyamchand village in the Raghopur assembly constituency, represented by RJD leader and former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav. The state government has announced financial assistance of ₹4 lakh for the family of each deceased person.

According to preliminary reports, the passengers were travelling to attend a feast when the boat overturned in the river. The incident reportedly happened suddenly, leaving those on board with little time to react. The exact cause of the accident has not yet been established.

Rescue Operations Launched, Families in Distress

Following the incident, local police and administrative officials rushed to the spot and launched rescue and relief operations. Ambulances were deployed, while local residents joined efforts to assist those affected.

The tragedy triggered panic in the surrounding villages, with families anxiously searching for information about their loved ones. Police officials are working to identify the deceased and inform their relatives. The bodies have reportedly been sent to a government hospital for post-mortem examinations.

Tejashwi Yadav Expresses Grief

Former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav expressed deep sorrow over the boat capsize in the Raghopur Diyara area. In a post on X, he said he had received the distressing news and noted that most of those who drowned were children.

Yadav said he had spoken with local residents, administrative officials and other authorities, urging them to accelerate rescue and relief efforts and ensure prompt medical treatment for the injured.

Government Announces ₹4 Lakh Compensation

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary described the loss of innocent lives as deeply tragic and heartbreaking. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for strength for those affected by the tragedy.

Choudhary announced that the state government would provide ₹4 lakh in ex-gratia assistance to the family of each deceased person. He also said the administration had been directed to expedite relief and rescue operations and ensure appropriate medical care for the injured.

Chirag Paswan Calls Incident Heartbreaking

Union Minister Chirag Paswan also expressed grief over the incident, describing the deaths in the Raghopur Diyara area as deeply painful. The area falls within his parliamentary constituency, according to reports.

Paswan said local officials had been instructed to provide immediate relief and all possible assistance to affected families. He also called for proper medical treatment for the injured and appropriate compensation for the victims’ families.

The tragic incident has once again highlighted the devastating consequences of river accidents. Further details regarding the circumstances of the capsizing and the identities of all the victims are awaited.