4 Indian medical students drown in Russia, 2 bodies recovered

The four – Harshal Anantrao Desale, Jishan Ashpak Pinjari, Jia Firoj Pinjari, and Malik Gulamgous Mohammad Yakub – were taking a walk along the Volkhov River, when they entered the waters. Another student, Nisha Bhupesh Sonawane, survived.

In fact, Jishan Ashpak Pinjari was on a video call with his parents just a few seconds before he and the three others drowned in the river, a family member was quoted by local media on Friday. The five students involved in the accident belong to the Jalgaon district of Maharashtra.

As per the MEA, local emergency services have recovered two dead bodies from the Volkhov River so far, while the search for the remaining two missing students continues. “Our Consulate in St. Petersburg remains in contact with the university and local authorities and is providing all possible assistance,” the MEA said.

The Indian consulate in St Petersburg is coordinating with local authorities for the repatriation of the mortal remains, the MEA said, adding that the consulate continues to be in contact with the families and the district administration in Jalgaon.

Jalgaon District Collector Ayush Prasad said arrangements are being made to bring the bodies to India. He said, “Best medical care is being provided to the student whose life has been saved… We are hoping that the bodies will be sent back to India as per the international protocol…”

While Jishan Ashpak Pinjari, and Jia Firoj Pinjari were siblings and hailed from Amalner in Jalgaon, Harshal Desale belonged to Bhadgaon, officials said. The students were aged between 18 and 20 years.

“The students were taking a walk near the city’s beach along the Volkhov River, in the evening, during their study-free time. The tragedy was accidental and unexpected. Nisha Bhupesh Sonawane survived. Now she is under the care of medical staff,” a university official said.

“The university informed the parents immediately and is currently working closely with all respective agencies in Russia,” he said.

Russian media reports suggested that a woman student, who waded out from the bank near the river, got into trouble and four of her companions tried to save her. In their attempt to save her, three others also drowned in the river.