Bhopal: 11 dead as boat overturns during Ganesh visarjan, 2 still missing

Bhopal Ganesh Visarjan Boat Accident: Around 20 people were aboard the two boats which were used to transport and immerse a huge idol in the lake for Ganesh visarjan near Khatlapura.

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Bhopal boat accident: Rescue operations are underway. (Express photo)

At least 11 bodies were recovered from the lower lake near Khatlapura in Bhopal Friday, after two boats that were being used for Ganesh visarjan capsized.

At least six persons either swam to safety or were rescued by the disaster relief forces. It was not clear exactly how many persons were present on the two boats that were joined together to transport a Ganesh idol for immersion.

A senior police officer said the search and rescue operations will continue as two men still appear to be missing.

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Authorities said the boat started sinking while the men were tried to lower the idol. A few of them swam to safety since the boat was not very far from the Khatlapura ghat.

The boat was recovered around 11 am. A couple of footwear were also spotted floating in the water.

A magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the incident. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has assured strict action against the guilty.

The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 11 lakh each to the kin of the deceased.

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Police said the 11 deceased, most of whom were youngsters, belonged to Piplani locality.

A case has been registered against the two boatmen.

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