A tragic cruise boat capsize incident in Bargi Dam on Narmada river on Thursday evening left four people dead and several others missing. According to initial information, around 29 tourists were on board on the cruise operated by Madhya Pradesh Tourism. The incident took place at around 6 pm when the vessel was returning after its final round. Eyewitnesses said a sudden storm struck the area, bringing strong winds and high waves that caused the cruise to lose balance and capsize. Till filing of this report, 15 passengers managed to swim to safety, while four bodies were recovered, including two women. Around 10 people are still reported missing and search operations are underway. Rescue operations were launched immediately after the incident.

 

Teams from SDRF, police and Home Guards rushed to the spot and started search and rescue work, which was still on till filing of this report. Local people also assisted in initial rescue efforts. The injured have been admitted to Jabalpur Medical College, where they are undergoing treatment. Officials said their condition is being closely monitored. State PWD Minister Rakesh Singh along with senior officials including Collector Raghavendra Singh, Superintendent of Police Sampat Upadhyay and others reached the spot to supervise the rescue operation and review the situation. While the exact cause of the accident will be established after a detailed inquiry, role of sudden weather changes and preparedness of the crew is under scrutiny. The tragedy has once again highlighted the urgent need for strict safety protocols in tourist activities on water bodies. The incident has raised serious concerns over safety measures at tourist spots.