What Happened During the Durga Idol Immersion in Madhya Pradesh?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Twin accidents during Durga immersion in Madhya Pradesh.
- 11 fatalities reported, including children.
- Ongoing rescue operations for missing individuals.
- Government announces financial aid for victims' families.
- Safety protocols under review for future events.
Khandwa/Ujjain, Oct 2 (NationPress) The immersion celebrations for Durga have been marred by twin tragic incidents in Madhya Pradesh, with one event resulting in multiple fatalities and another leading to urgent search and rescue operations.
In Jamli village, located in the Khandwa district, a tractor-trolley that was transporting devotees along with the idol of Goddess Durga overturned and plunged into a pond while navigating a narrow culvert. Reports indicate that the vehicle was overloaded, carrying approximately 20 to 25 individuals from Ardla and Jamli villages. As of now, 11 bodies have been recovered, which includes eight children.
The rescue mission is currently in progress, with concerns that additional individuals may be trapped beneath the water. The tragic incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Pandhana police station, and the recovered bodies are being transferred to the Pandhana Community Health Centre.
Upon receiving the distressing news, local officials including the Collector and Superintendent of Police quickly arrived at the scene. An earthmoving machine was utilized to retrieve the submerged trolley from the pond, and divers are actively searching for the missing individuals.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his profound sorrow over this harrowing incident, labeling it as “deeply tragic.”
He conveyed his condolences to the grieving families and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of those who lost their lives. Additionally, he assured that those injured would receive appropriate medical care at the closest hospital.
In a separate occurrence within Ujjain district, another tractor-trolley, which was transporting an idol for immersion, fell into the Chambal River near Narsingha village in Badnagar. Eight individuals were reportedly on board the vehicle at the time.
While five individuals were successfully rescued, three remain unaccounted for. Ongoing search operations are being coordinated by local police and rescue teams in the river. Both incidents have raised significant concerns regarding safety measures during religious processions and the use of tractor-trolleys for transporting large groups.
The state government has urged district administrations to reevaluate immersion routes and put in place adequate safety measures for future events.
As families grieve their losses, the administration continues to search for the missing and provide necessary support to those affected.