Tractor-trolley with Durga idols plunges into Madhya Pradesh lake; 11 killed

At least 11 devotees died after a tractor-trolley carrying idols of Goddess Durga for immersion on Vijayadashmi plunged into a lake in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh Thursday, police said.

The incident took place in the Pandhana area, where devotees were riding on the tractor which was carrying Durga idols from various villages for immersion. According to officials, the incident occurred when nearly 20–25 people from Ardla and Jamli villages were travelling in the trolley for immersion rituals. The tractor-trolley was parked on a culvert near a pond when it lost balance and overturned, plunging the passengers into the water.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed grief over the tragedy.  In a post on X, he said: “The accidents that occurred during the Durga immersion ceremony in Jamli village of Khandwa and the Ingoria police station area near Ujjain are extremely tragic.”

Rescue operation underway in Khandwa, Thursday. (ANI)

He further said: “I express my condolences to the bereaved families. Instructions have been given to provide Rs 4 lakh each as compensation to the next of kin of the deceased, and to provide proper treatment to the injured at the nearest hospital. I pray to Goddess Durga for the speedy recovery of all the injured and for strength to the bereaved families.”