Mathura Tragedy: 10 Dead as Steamer Capsizes in Yamuna River, Vrindavan

Tragic Accident at Shringar Ghat in Vrindavan

A devastating incident unfolded in the holy city of Vrindavan, Mathura district, on Friday when a steamer carrying approximately 30 pilgrims capsized in the Yamuna River. The accident occurred near the Shringar Ghat, a prominent location for devotees, while according to eyewitnesses, the vessel lost its balance and overturned within seconds, plunging all passengers into the deep waters. The suddenness of the event led to chaos and panic at the riverbank, prompting immediate rescue attempts by local residents and boatmen present at the scene.

Collision with Pontoon Bridge Led to Disaster

According to preliminary reports from the district administration, the steamer was navigating the river when it collided with a pontoon bridge (locally known as Pipo ka Pul). The impact was severe enough to destabilize the vessel, causing it to flip over. District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh confirmed that the collision was the primary cause of the tragedy. Police officials and administrative teams reached the spot shortly after receiving the alert to coordinate the emergency response. Divers were deployed immediately to locate the submerged passengers.

Pilgrims from Ludhiana Identified as Victims

The victims of this tragic mishap have been identified as pilgrims hailing from Ludhiana, Punjab. They had arrived in Mathura-Vrindavan to perform religious rituals and visit the historic temples. Officials stated that the group was attempting to cross the river when the accident occurred. So far, 10 bodies have been recovered from the river, while 15 individuals have been rescued alive. The survivors were rushed to nearby medical facilities, where some are reported to be in critical condition. The administration is working to identify all the deceased and contact their families in Punjab.

NDRF and Local Divers Conduct Search Operations

In response to the scale of the accident, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been mobilized to assist in the search and rescue efforts. Local police divers and PAC personnel are also scanning the riverbed for those still missing, while the strong currents of the Yamuna have posed significant challenges to the divers. The District Magistrate has assured that the operation will continue until every missing person is accounted for. A temporary control room has been set up at the site to manage the flow of information.

Chief Minister Directs Immediate Relief Measures

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed profound grief over the loss of lives in the Mathura accident. In an official statement, the Chief Minister extended his condolences to the bereaved families and directed the district authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured. He has instructed the District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police to remain on-site and oversee the rescue operations personally. The state government has also promised all necessary assistance to the families of the victims as per the established protocols.