Madhya Pradesh: Eight children Among 11 Die During Durga Idol Immersion in Khandwa; 2 Die in Ujjain
In Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, a tragic accident occurred during the immersion of a Durga idol when a tractor-trolley fell into a pond, resulting in the deaths of 11 persons, including eight girls. Three others are reported to be in critical condition, with around 35 to 40 people having drowned.
The incident took place on Thursday evening in Ardla village, near Pandhana in Khandwa. A tractor-trolley, which was parked on a makeshift bridge for the idol immersion, overturned into the pond, throwing all occupants into the water. In a desperate attempt to save them, 10 to 15 people jumped into the pond. The accident happened around 5 p.m. Police and administrative officials began rescue operations using a JCB. The rescue efforts continued until 9 p.m., said Khandwa Collector Rishav Gupta.
Eyewitness Pradeep Jagdhanne said that the water depth at the site was about 50 feet. "We alone rescued nine people," he said. Those rescued were taken to Pandhana Hospital, where doctors confirmed that three were alive and subsequently transferred them to Khandwa District Hospital. The last body recovered was that of a girl named Chanda.
The eleven deceased have been identified as follows:
Sharmila, daughter of Pyar Singh (15)
Aarti, daughter of Pyar Singh
Dinesh, son of Shantilal (13)
Urmila Relsing (16)
Ganesh, son of Ter Singh (20)
Kiran (16)
Patali Kailash (25)
Rev Singh Munshi Singh (13)
Ayush, son of Bharat (9)
Sangita, daughter of Gyan Singh (16)
Chanda
These three are admitted to the ICU
Sonu (16)
Sonu (18)
Manjula (17)
Collector Rishav Gupta stated that the tractor driver was unaware of the pond's depth and, in his excitement, jumped down with the trolley, causing it to overturn and drown the occupants. Eyewitness said that the driver was pressured by the crowd to drive the tractor closer to the water, leading to the tragic incident. Those who could swim managed to escape, while others drowned.
Several injured persons have been taken to the nearest Community Health Center (CHC) for treatment, and the District Magistrate of Khandwa has confirmed that some people are still missing.
Two die in Ujjain, CM announces compensation
In a separate incident, two persons lost their lives in Ujjain, with several others reported missing. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav expressed deep sorrow over these accidents on social media, announcing assistance of Rs. 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased and support for the injured. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the recovery of the injured.