Nitish announces compensation for kins of boat tragedy

Patna, Aug 6 (UNI) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar tonight announced relief of Rs one lakh each to next of kins of those drowned in a boat mishap in the Ganga this evening.

He also expressed grief and concern over the boat tragedy.

Mr Kumar said so far two bodies had been fished out and eleven others were rescued.

He said the compensation of Rs one lakh would be given to the immediate kin of those drowned and also to those missing in the mishap.

He said the administration of Patna and Samastipur had been directed to carry on rescue operation during the night hours to trace the missing persons.

Mr Kumar said the Central Reserve Police Force was asked to assist the rescue operation.

State Home Commissioner Afzal Amanullah said the districts situated on the downstream of the Ganges had been alerted about the boat mishap.

At least 87 people were missing when a motor boat ferrying over 100 people capsized midstream in the Ganges in Samastipur this evening.

UNI