Boat tragedy at Bargi dam claims 9 lives; rescue ops underway
Jabalpur: In a tragic incident in Jabalpur, at least nine tourists lost their lives after a boat capsized in the Bargi Dam on the Narmada River. The mishap occurred on Thursday when around 30 people were on board the ill-fated vessel.
According to officials, 17 passengers were rescued soon after the accident, while search operations are still underway to trace four missing persons. Rescue teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have intensified efforts at the site.
Authorities confirmed that nine bodies have been recovered so far. Among the deceased, a heart-wrenching image has emerged of a mother from Delhi found clutching her young child. Both were discovered lifeless, reportedly wearing a single life jacket. The image, widely circulated on social media, has drawn emotional reactions, symbolising the depth of maternal love.
Preliminary reports suggest that although the victims were wearing life jackets, they may have been trapped inside the boat’s cabin when it overturned. Experts believe that the sudden capsizing left little time for escape, and the mother and child likely suffocated as they were unable to exit the enclosed space. Officials noted that had they managed to surface, the life jacket might have helped save them.
The photograph, reportedly captured by NDRF personnel at the scene, has been verified by several national media outlets. A police officer who shared the image on social media described it as a stark reminder that “nothing is greater than a mother’s love.”
The victims are believed to be tourists from Delhi and locals from Jabalpur who had visited the dam during a local festival. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols and emergency preparedness at popular tourist sites.
Madhya Pradesh Tourism Minister Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi reached the spot and is overseeing the rescue operations. He assured that a detailed investigation will be conducted and strict action will be taken against those found responsible.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the deceased.
