The grim toll from the Mathura boat mishap on the Yamuna River has reached 15 confirmed deaths, with rescue operations persisting into their fifth day. Monday’s discoveries of two additional bodies have cast a long shadow over the sacred waters frequented by devotees.
Among the recovered was Yash Bhalla alias Yuvraj from Punjab, fished out in a severely mutilated condition near Keshi Ghat by the Devra Baba Ghat. Monika was the other victim identified. The NDRF spearheads the search, supported by Army units from Strike One Corps, as they comb the river for the lone missing person.
Post-mortems are being conducted on the latest finds, while drones aid in mapping uncharted sections of the waterway. The accident occurred April 10 off Vrindavan, involving a boat overloaded with Punjab pilgrims from Ludhiana and Muktsar—part of a larger 150-strong devotional tour.
Reports indicate the craft drifted into deep waters, striking what officials believe were remnants of a pontoon bridge removed amid swelling river levels. The impact led to a sudden capsize, plunging passengers into the treacherous flow.
Local officials emphasize that recent hydrological changes contributed to the hazards, with floating debris posing unseen threats. Relief teams provide aid to grieving kin, and the incident has sparked calls for enhanced safety measures, including life jackets and vessel inspections for tourist boats. As searches continue, the nation watches, hoping for closure amid profound loss.
