At least nine people lost their lives as a boat capsized in Mahanadi river in Odisha’s Kendrapara on Wednesday, official sources said.
The incident took place when the mechanised boat capsized in the Mahanadi on Wednesday evening, said the collector of Kendrapara.
The fire brigade personnel and members of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) were rushed to the spot for rescue operation.
As per a tweet posted on the Chief Minister’s official account, “CM @Naveen_Odisha expressed grief at news of boat with picnickers capsizing in Bhitarkanika region; directed officials from @SRC_Odisha, District Authorities, #Odisha Fire Services to step up rescue & search operations; pray for safety of those affected.”
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the kin of deceased and free treatment for the injured.
“CM @Naveen_Odisha announced ex gratia of ₹ 4 lakhs to the next of kin of the deceased and free treatment to the injured in the boat tragedy at Hukitola,” CMO tweeted.
According to the reports, the victims were returning after a picnic at Hukitola Light House.
Further details are awaited.
