Amid the investigation into the infamous cruise ship accident at Bargi Dam, an affidavit filed before the Commission has given the matter a new twist. Complainant Akhilesh Tripathi, in his affidavit submitted to the Commission, alleges that no valid insurance coverage was available for the cruise ship involved in the accident and its passengers. The affidavit claims that the insurance company concerned has also reportedly clarified that no insurance policy was issued in the name of the ill-fated cruise ship. The complainant states that the policy cited appears to pertain to a private resort, not a cruise ship. The affidavit also alleges that the mandatory technical survey and safety inspection of the ship were not conducted before it was granted permission to operate.

 

Citing the Inland Vessels Act and the Madhya Pradesh Inland Steam Vessels Rules, 1962, the complainant states that passenger vessels must comply with fitness, safety, and inspection provisions. Despite this, operating a cruise without survey and safety testing constitutes serious negligence on the part of the concerned officials and a violation of statutory obligations. The affidavit also questions the role of the Meteorological Department, Tourism Department, and other relevant agencies. The complainant alleges that it is the responsibility of Government agencies to disseminate weather warnings and forecasts to the relevant departments in a timely manner, while it is the responsibility of tourism and administrative officials to take effective action on such information.

 

Citing safety standards in states like Goa, Maharashtra, and Kerala, the affidavit claims that adequate safety mechanisms for water tourism activities in Madhya Pradesh have not been implemented. The complainant has requested the Commission to investigate the role of the officials and departments responsible for the entire matter and fix accountability.