How Did Eight Friends from Jaipur Drown in the Banas River?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The picnic turned fatal when eight friends drowned while trying to help each other.
- Local residents played a critical role in rescuing three individuals.
- The victims hailed from various neighborhoods in Jaipur.
- This incident highlights the urgent need for safety during recreational outings.
- The community is mourning the loss of young lives, prompting calls for action.
Jaipur, June 10 (NationPress) A fun-filled picnic turned into a heartbreaking tragedy in Rajasthan's Tonk, as eight friends tragically drowned in the Banas River near Kachcha Bandh on Tuesday afternoon. The group had traveled from Jaipur for a joyful outing when the unforeseen incident struck.
According to Superintendent of Police Vikas Sangwan, 11 young men ventured into the river, resulting in the drowning of eight, while three were fortunate enough to be rescued by local bystanders.
Rescue teams and police swiftly arrived on the scene after the alarm was raised.
SP Sangwan noted that the deceased were all friends aged between 25 and 35 years, hailing from Hasanpura, Ghatgate, Ramganj, and Panipech areas of Jaipur.
Preliminary investigations revealed that some members of the group entered the river for a swim, but began to struggle. In a bid to assist them, others also entered the water, leading to this devastating outcome.
The deceased included Naushad (35), Qasim and Farhan from Hasanpura; Rizwan (26) and Ballu from Ghatgate; Nawab Khan (28) and Sajid (20) from Panipech Kachhi Basti; and Naveed (30) from Ramganj Bazar.
The survivors who were rescued included Shahrukh (30), Salman (26), and Sameer (32), all from Ghatgate.
The bodies have been transported to the mortuary of Saadat Hospital, and the families of the victims have departed Jaipur for Tonk following the devastating news.
Former Chief Minister and Congress leader Ashok Gehlot expressed his sorrow over the tragic drowning incident, stating, "My heartfelt sympathies go out to the grieving parents and relatives. It is imperative for the administration and government to take measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. I pray for the souls of the departed and for strength to their families during this trying time. Om Shanti."
This incident marks the third drowning in Rajasthan within a mere three days, raising the total death toll to 14.
On Sunday, two sisters and their brother drowned in the Som River while searching for a lost buffalo.
On Monday, a mother, daughter, and nephew tragically perished in the backwaters of the Mahi Dam after the mother jumped in to save her children. Now, on Tuesday, eight young men from Jaipur have drowned in the Banas River during their picnic, bringing the drowning toll to 14 in just three days.