Boat capsizes in Gujarat lake, 14 feared dead
At least 12 students and two teachers from New Sunrise School died after their boat capsized in Harni Lake in Gujarat's Vadodara on Thursday, India Today reported. The boat was carrying 27 students, none of whom were reportedly wearing life jackets. They were on a school trip. Rescue operations are being carried out by the fire department and the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF).
Visuals of ongoing rescue operation
Significant safety lapses
Local reports have pointed out significant safety lapses, such as the boat's capacity being only 15 people, yet 27 were on board. Of the total, at least five schoolchildren are feared to be missing, officials aware of the matter said. However, the police have declined to comment on the death toll or the total number of students who have gone missing.
CM Patel expresses condolences
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his condolences, saying, "The incident of children drowning after the boat capsized in Vadodara's Harani lake is extremely heartbreaking." "I pray for the peace of the souls of the innocent children who lost their lives. My deepest condolences to their families," he wrote. He also noted that rescue operations were still underway and instructed authorities to provide immediate relief.
NDRF reveals that there is sludge at bottom of lake
The lake is managed by a Kotia firm under contract with the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC), Desh Gujarat reported. The NDRF said there is sludge at the bottom of the lake, which is making the rescue operation difficult. It also expressed concern that some of those who are feared to be drowned are stuck in the sludge.
