Overloading Leads to Boat Capsize in Supaul; Villagers Rescue Dozens

The persistent issue of overcrowded ferry boats in Bihar's Seemanchal region nearly resulted in a mass tragedy on Tuesday. A boat ferrying approximately 22 people capsized in the Kosi River at Bhaptiyahi, Supaul, highlighting the severe lack of safety regulations in riverine transport. The victims were on their way to the Palar region for work when the overloaded vessel succumbed to the river's pressure. Panic broke out as men and women were swept away by the current, but the heroic intervention of local residents prevented a high death toll. Villagers jumped into the water without hesitation, rescuing every person who had fallen overboard. The incident has once again sparked outrage regarding the absence of life jackets and the lack of monitoring at ghats. While four people remain in critical condition at the district hospital, the administration is under pressure to explain why such risky boat operations continue unabated. Police officials have noted that the rescue operation is technically ongoing to ensure no one is missing.