Vaishali (Bihar): At least 11 people, including several children, lost their lives on Tuesday after a boat carrying 15 to 20 passengers capsized in the Ganga River near Bihar's Vaishali district. The passengers were reportedly travelling to attend a banquet when the vessel overturned in the Raghopur area.

The majority of those who drowned were children, according to initial reports. Senior district officials and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams were dispatched to the site to lead emergency relief and search operations. Local residents are assisting authorities in searching for missing individuals in the river. Rescue efforts remain ongoing, with administration officials actively monitoring the situation.
 

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh for the families of each deceased victim, expressing grief on social media platform X.

“The news of the innocent lives lost in the boat accident in Raghoopur, Vaishali, is extremely heartbreaking and soul-wrenching. In this difficult time, my deepest condolences are with the bereaved families. May God grant peace to the departed souls and provide the families with the strength to bear this immense sorrow,” Choudhary wrote.

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav also expressed condolences and urged swift action.
 

“We have received the unfortunate and tragic news of a boat capsizing in the Raghoopur Diyara area. Most of those who drowned are children. May God keep everyone safe. After discussions with local people, administration, and officials, instructions have been given to expedite relief, rescue, and treatment operations,” he said.