Tragic Tractor-Trolley Accident During Durga Idol Immersion in Khandwa Results in 11 Drownings

In Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, a tractor-trolley carrying Durga idols plunged into a lake, leading to the drowning of 11 individuals, including seven girls. Authorities have initiated rescue operations and expressed condolences to the victims' families.

Eleven people, including seven girls, drowned when a tractor-trolley carrying Durga idols for immersion fell into a lake in Madhya Pradesh's Khandwa district. The incident happened on Thursday during the Navdurga festival's Vijayadashmi celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed their condolences and announced financial aid for the victims' families.

Officials reported that the accident occurred in the Pandhana area when the tractor-trolley, loaded with idols and devotees, tilted and submerged during the immersion process. Despite warnings from villagers about the lake's depth, enthusiasm led to the vehicle moving further into the water, causing it to overturn.

Rescue Efforts and Casualties

A rescue operation was launched involving police, administration, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards, and local divers. Khandwa District Magistrate Rishav Gupta confirmed that 11 bodies were recovered from the lake. Ten to twelve devotees were rescued, with three receiving treatment for injuries.

Pandhana Sub-Divisional Magistrate Deeksha Bhagore identified the deceased as Aarti (18), Urmila (16), Sharmila (15), Kiran (16), Patli (25), Sangeeta (16), Chanda (8), Dinesh (13), Ganesh (20), Revsingh (13), and Ayush (9). Around 30 people were on the tractor at the time of the accident.

Community Response and Official Statements

Eyewitnesses described chaos at the scene as people desperately searched for their relatives after the vehicle sank. A large crowd of villagers gathered, many joining in the rescue efforts. Khandwa Superintendent of Police Manoj Kumar Rai noted that three injured individuals are currently undergoing treatment.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow on X, stating: "My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured." An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF will be provided to each deceased's next of kin, while Rs 50,000 will be given to those injured.

Financial Assistance Announced

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also conveyed his grief over the tragedy. He announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh for each family who lost a loved one in this unfortunate event. The community continues to mourn as they come to terms with this tragic loss.

With inputs from PTI