At least 11 people died after a Bolero SUV plunged into the Saryu canal in UP’s Gonda district. President Murmu, PM Modi, and CM Yogi Adityanath expressed grief. Financial aid was announced, and rescue efforts praised. Victims were en route to Prithvi Nath temple.
In a tragic road accident that shook the nation, at least 11 people lost their lives on Sunday when a vehicle carrying 14 passengers plunged into the Saryu canal in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district. The victims were en route to the revered Prithvi Nath temple in Khargupur when the incident occurred. The accident prompted reactions and condolences from top national and state leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to police reports, the vehicle involved was a Bolero SUV, which veered off the road and crashed into the canal near the Motiganj police station area. The Superintendent of Police (SP) of Gonda, Vineet Jaiswal, confirmed that 11 people, including men, women, and children, drowned in the accident. Four other passengers were rescued with minor injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the District Hospital.
Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying moment when the vehicle sank into the canal. Local residents immediately informed the village head (Gram Pradhan) and alerted nearby police stations. Personnel from the ItiyaThok police station responded swiftly and, with the help of villagers, retrieved the bodies from the canal. A full investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the accident, though initial indications suggest the vehicle may have lost control or encountered a mechanical failure.
President, Prime Minister, and Chief Minister Express Condolences
President Droupadi Murmu took to social media platform X to express her grief over the incident. “Deeply saddened by the news of the road accident in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,” she posted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered his condolences through a post shared by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on X. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to an accident in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. May the injured recover soon.”
As part of the central government’s support, PM Modi announced an ex gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and directed immediate relief measures. “The loss of life in the unfortunate accident in the district of Gonda is extremely tragic and heart-wrenching. My condolences are with the grief-stricken families,” he said.
CM Adityanath also announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh each for the families of those killed in the incident. He directed district officials to ensure prompt medical attention for the injured and expedite the relief operations. “I pray to Lord Shri Ram that the departed souls attain salvation, the bereaved families find strength to bear this immense sorrow, and the injured recover swiftly. Om Shanti!” he added in a heartfelt message.
Community in Shock, Rescue Efforts Praised
The local community in Sihagaon and surrounding villages was left devastated by the loss. Most of the victims were reportedly from the same locality and had planned the pilgrimage to the temple together. The coordinated rescue operation by the police and villagers was lauded, but the grief of losing so many lives has cast a long shadow over the area.
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The police have cordoned off the site, and divers were deployed to ensure no other passengers were unaccounted for. Authorities are now reviewing road safety conditions in the region and considering precautionary measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Looking Ahead
This tragic incident once again underscores the urgent need for better road safety, especially in areas near water bodies. It also brings to focus the importance of timely rescue operations and community involvement during emergencies. As the nation mourns, the hope remains that steps will be taken to ensure that such a calamity is not repeated.
