A devastating river accident unfolded in Vrindavan, located in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district, when a tourist steamer capsized in the Yamuna River near Keshi Ghat. The vessel was carrying pilgrims and tourists from Punjab who were visiting the holy town.

Sudden wind gusts trigger disaster

According to preliminary information from officials, the steamer was carrying around 25 to 27 passengers when it suddenly became unstable due to strong winds. Witnesses reported that the boat began to sway violently before losing control and striking a structure near the river route, which led to it overturning.

Casualties and rescue operations

Authorities confirmed that 10 passengers lost their lives in the accident, including six women and four men. Around 15 people were rescued alive and immediately taken to nearby medical facilities, including Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, where treatment is being provided free of cost. A few passengers are still missing, and search operations remain active.

Massive multi-agency rescue effort

Following the incident, the District Magistrate of Mathura requested urgent assistance from the Indian Army. Along with the Army, teams from the National Disaster Response Force and nearly 50 local divers have been engaged in continuous search operations in the Yamuna River. Officials stated that efforts are being intensified to locate all missing tourists.

Official response and on-ground monitoring

Senior police officials, including the DIG, confirmed the sequence of events and stated that two steamers were operating at the time of the accident, one of which overturned. Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan also visited a community health center to review the condition of the injured and monitor relief efforts.

Eyewitness account from survivors

One of the survivors from Ludhiana described the moment of panic, stating that strong winds caused the steamer to shake violently in the middle of the river. The vessel reportedly picked up speed unexpectedly and collided with a structure before capsizing, leaving passengers struggling in the water.

Search continues for missing tourists

As of now, the rescue operation remains ongoing, with Army personnel joining local authorities and disaster response teams in the search for the remaining missing passengers. Officials have assured that all possible resources are being used to complete the operation.