Ujjain, Oct 2 (NationPress) In a heartbreaking incident, two young lives were tragically lost during the Navratri immersion ceremonies, casting a shadow of grief over the town of Badnagar. A tractor-trolley, which was transporting devotees, unexpectedly plunged into the Chambal River near Narsingha Ghat within the Ingoria police station jurisdiction in Ujjain district.

The calamity unfolded on Thursday afternoon when a group of worshippers gathered to complete the immersion of the idol of Goddess Durga as the festival came to a close.

Initial reports indicate that the tractor was stationed near the riverbank while devotees engaged in the final rites. A 12-year-old boy, overwhelmed by the festive spirit, climbed into the tractor's cabin and accidentally turned the ignition key. The vehicle lurched forward, breaking through the bridge railing and plunging into the river, pulling the trolley and its occupants into the strong current.

Witnesses recounted scenes of chaos and despair as the tractor sank approximately 20 feet into the water. Devotees, including children, women, and the elderly, were thrown into the river.

Desperate cries for assistance resonated along the riverbank as locals rushed to rescue those struggling to survive.

Local residents, police, and SDRF teams quickly initiated a rescue operation, successfully saving 12 individuals from drowning.

“Unfortunately, two of the rescued individuals succumbed to their injuries at Gautampura Hospital,” reported a senior police official.

The victims have been identified as 16-year-old Prithvi Raj and 8-year-old Vansh. Two other children, 10-year-old Amish and 6-year-old Ansh, are in critical condition and have been transferred to a higher medical facility in Indore.

One individual, known as Shubham, remains unaccounted for, prompting divers to continue search operations in the river, according to officials.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh for the families of the deceased. A photograph captured moments before the tragedy, which shows children bathing in the river and boarding the trolley, has gone viral on social media, deepening public sorrow and concern.

This image serves as a haunting reminder of how swiftly a celebration can turn into a disaster.

Additional Superintendent of Police Abhishek Ranjan described the incident as “extremely tragic,” assuring that every possible effort is being made to locate the missing and assist the injured.

The accident has ignited calls for enhanced safety measures during religious processions, particularly those involving heavy vehicles near water bodies.