Vadodara, January 18, 2024 — In a heartbreaking incident, 14 school children and two teachers lost their lives on Thursday as a boat, carrying a total of 27 people on a picnic, overturned in Harni Lake on the outskirts of Vadodara, Gujarat. The boat, which exceeded its capacity, capsized, leading to a massive rescue operation.
Table of Contents
Overloaded boat claims 16 lives in Vadodara’s Harni Lake
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel arrived at the site, and the Prime Minister’s Office announced ex gratia for the victims. The overloaded boat was primarily carrying students from New Sunrise School in Panigate, raising questions about safety protocols.
Despite the grim situation, there is a glimmer of hope as 10 children have been successfully rescued from the lake. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and fire brigade personnel were deployed for the search operation, with Chief Fire Officer Parth Brahmbhatt confirming that there were no missing individuals after extensive rescue efforts.
Local heroes also played a crucial role, rescuing children before the official response teams reached the scene. Vadodara MP Ranjanben Dhananjay Bhatt assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the tragic mishap.
PMO announced an ex gratia of ₹ 2 lakhs from PMNRF
Expressing deep sorrow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “Distressed by the loss of lives due to a boat capsizing at the Harni lake in Vadodara. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief.” The PMO announced an ex gratia of ₹ 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of each deceased and 50,000 for the injured.
“Extremely heart-wrenching” – Kharge
Chief Minister Patel extended condolences, describing the incident as “extremely heartbreaking.” He emphasized ongoing rescue efforts and instructed the system to provide immediate relief and treatment to the victims.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge echoed the sentiment, calling the incident “extremely heart-wrenching” and urging expedited relief and rescue operations. As details unfold, the focus remains on supporting the affected families and understanding the circumstances leading to this tragic event.